Microsoft just announced its brand new Surface tablet.

Microsoft just announced its brand new Surface tablet. The Surface package has been miniaturized into a chassis that measures just 9.3mm thin. It will sport a USB 2.0 port. The entire Surface tablet weighs 576 grams. Other hardware specifications include a built-in stand in order to transform the Surface into a digital photo frame of sorts when the need arises.

A magnetic connector enables a cover to snap on across the display. The cover itself is 3mm thin. The cover is actually a full MULTI-TOUCH KEYBOARD, making touch typing a possibility – no idea on the learning curve though. Built-in HDMI connectivity will be accompanied by front and rear cameras.

There will also be a Microsoft Surface Pro. It will share the same price range as that of Ultrabooks. The Windows 8 model, which runs a 3rd generation Core i5 (Ivy Bridge) is a cross between an ultrabook and a tablet. The Windows RT model uses an ARM processor. The RT tablet will come with 32 to 64GBs of storage, while the Windows 8 version will come in 64 and 128GB models.

Microsoft fans say the the new Surface units are like a combination MacBook Air and iPad. Some say it’s Microsoft desperately trying to pull attention away from Apple’s products. Availability for Windows RT will happen when Windows 8 is launched, while the Surface Pro will roll out to the masses 3 months later. You will be able to pick it up via the Windows Store. Read more about the pro version, the lowdown on both tablets’ system specifications, and a picture gallery at: http://www.ubergizmo.com/2012/06/microsoft-surface-tablet-announced/. More at: http://www.zdnet.com/blog/open-source/microflops-microsoft-surface-rt-and-8-tablets/11238