14 DAY TRIAL // Although Microsoft’s Surface tablet is considered a potential iPad killer, and even if it comes with a price similar to the one of the Apple device, it’s not going to target the same consumer segment as the Cupertino-based company.
That’s what analysts believe, claiming that Microsoft is actually planning to attract those who would normally be interested in a PC with an installed copy of Office.
“It's not going to be bought by someone who would buy an iPad, or even an Android tablet. I think it's for a very specific market: consumers who have a primary PC, want a tablet, and for whom Office is very important. But it's not even clear if Office will not be available on Android or iOS,” Ezra Gottheil, an analyst with Technology Business Research, told ComputerWorld.
What’s more, analysts warn that Microsoft’s first attempt in the tablet market may fail, mostly due to high price tag of the tablet.
While $399 (€305) would be a much more reasonable price for this tablet, especially because Microsoft arrives pretty late in this particular industry segment, experts are wondering whether Office is indeed worth $100 (€75) over the Surface standard price tag.
“I just don't see this a successful product concept at this point,” Gottheil explained. “It's always been a problem child. It's poorly defined and poorly positioned. It would be a mystifying product even at a considerably lower price.”
In the meantime, however, the Surface is selling impressively well and the cheapest version is already sold out. Those who’d like to get their tablet on October 26 have no other option than to purchase one of the two more expensive flavors.