Microsoft Surface tablet to launch October 26

The Surface tablet has finally received a launch date of October 26, signaling Microsoft's push to bring Windows 8 to as many platforms as possible. The tablet launch will occur on the same day as the launch for Windows 8, as revealed in a report filed through the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Surface will be available in two forms: one running an ARM-based version with Windows RT and a more upscale version following 90 days later with an Intel core and Windows 8 Pro. The first tablet is expected to hit shelves at around $500-$600 while the Intel model could go for as high as $1,000.

The launch of Windows 8 and Surface is a strong shot by Windows to dig into the consumer market, long dominated by Apple and the iOS line. While many looked with positive eyes towards the new tablet, there has been a slight echoing of hesitation over the new OS. Recent comments from Valve's Gabe Newell suggested that Window 8 is going to do even more to fracture the PC environment, causing many retailers to lose profitable margins in the long run.

[via CVG]