Microsoft's Surface tablet revealed

Microsoft's Surface tablet revealed

It’s called the Surface and at 1.6” it has a screen over an inch larger than the iconic device it was inspired by.

It also comes with a built-in kickstand and an ultra-thin cover which also doubles as the keyboard.

The device was launched at a secretive invite-only event held at a Los Angeles, California, last night.

Chief executive Steve Ballmer described it as a tablet that “works and plays”.

He said: “The Surface is a PC, the Surface is a tablet, and the Surface is something new that we think people will absolutely love. It feels natural in your hand.”

The Surface comes in two types - the first and smaller version measures 9.3mm thick and weighs 676 grams, with a 10.6-inch HD screen, run on Windows RT and be available with 32 or 64 gigabytes of memory.

Another bigger model - which will run on Windows 8 Pro - weighs 903 grams and will be available with 64 or 128 gigabytes of memory.

The Surface rear stand props it up like a picture frame and can be combined with a 3mm-thick Touch Cover that, when opened, acts as a keypad so tablets could be switched into“desktop” mode.

There is also a 5 mm-thick Type Cover with moving keys for a more traditional typing feel.

The keypad-cover attaches with a magnetic clasp - just like the iPad version.

Microsoft’s VIP for Windows Planning, Hardware PC Ecosystem Michael Angiulo added: “We designed this like a book. This spine feels like a book.”

Microsoft did not specify when the tablet would be available but it is likely be timed with the release of Windows 8 software later this year.

It’s expected to be priced at around £449, although no official figure has been released.