I am liking today’s Microsoft Surface event (recording is here) for its:
- Incremental gains to Surface Pro & Surface Laptop,
- AI enhancements to Surface Pro X,
- Leap of faith on a new category of dual screen Surface Neo, and,
- Most importantly the pragmatic approach of using Android (with what looks like a special “Windows” Launcher) in Surface Duo (3-in-1).
This is certainly a ‘new’ Microsoft at all levels.
The last two products (Neo and Duo) are very very risky especially with Microsoft’s disastrous record with making Phones, and the immaturity of dual-screen tablets (and PCs). But I like the strategy of Microsoft’s CEO Mr Satya Nadella – to invest in Windows (with X and Neo), partner with Google for Duo, and not lose sight of Microsoft’s strength (Office & Cloud) which are the future for the company.
I have always wondered why the Surface family of tablets with detachable keyboards were not made affordable for people. It would have helped people who are on the move and have a powerful instrument for multi purpose use.
nice question. I suppose it is to do with the positioning that Microsoft is aiming for the Surface range of products – It is to be a premium device, a beachhead that other OEMs will get inspired and make at the price points they are operating on.
Surface pro never comes to the plane of the middle-class buyer. This surface is always in the top layer..