14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft will unveil the Surface tablet in about two weeks and the device will go on sale in every corner of the world a few days after that.
And even if some countries aren’t yet part of Microsoft Store’s retail chain, the Redmond-based technology company is apparently planning to rely on consumer gadget sellers to bring the Surface to buyers across the globe.
China is the best possible example, as Surface distribution in the country will be made by Suning, one of the largest gadget store networks in the region.
Signs of a possible collaboration between Microsoft and Suning appeared earlier this year in May when Suning’s president traveled to Redmond to meet Steve Ballmer and discuss on the partnership.
If the report issued by Chinese website WPDang proves to be true, Microsoft may adopt a similar marketing strategy in many other countries, so the Surface tablet could be sold by other retailers too beside the official Microsoft Store.
Microsoft will officially unveil the Surface tablet on October 25 in New York during the eagerly awaited Windows 8 launch event.
There’s no word on pricing yet, but CEO Steve Ballmer hinted some time ago that the tablet could be priced in between $300 / €230 and $800 / €615, a price range that would allow it to challenge the current tablet leader Apple iPad.
A new rumor however is claiming that Microsoft may sell the Surface for about $350 / €270, according to an online contest that offers the tablet as the grand prize. The official page of the contest reveals that the approximate value of the grand prize is $350, without actually mentioning the Surface version to be offered.