FollowExpectations that Microsoft will announce its second generation Surface RT this year were quelled by analysts who predicted a 2014 launch. However, recent rumors are overriding those predictions, as Microsoft is preparing to launch the device in June 2013, according to Digitimes. Surface 2 RT is likely to be unveiled at the Build Developer Conference.
The Surface 2 RT is expected to have an 8-inch display with a resolution of 1400 x 1050. Made by Pegatron Technology, the new Surface tablet will be powered by Nividia’s Tegra processor. The pricing range is expected to be around $250 and $300. Among the new features, Surface 2 RT is likely to support newer technologies like NFC and LTE. Harking back to the first Surface tablet’s twin antennas, analysts are expecting more advancement in the new Surface, particularly a high-speed, low-power 802.11 ac Wi-Fi capability.
Microsoft’s Surface series have elicited divided opinions in terms of pricing, battery life and technology. The first Surface was not a big hit, but Microsoft is striving to create a big difference with its future series. Microsoft has promised an updated Windows 8 version this year, so the next Surface could come pre-loaded with the updated version. Using Intel’s 4th gen chipset could help solve battery life issues that are considered drawbacks in the previous Surface series.
As 7-8 inch tablets are thronging the market with a new zest, market analysts are having a difficult time predicting the performance of Surface 2 RT. Further, Google is preparing to release its second-generation Nexus 7 this July, with plans to sell six to eight million units this year. In addition to Google Nexus 7, Surface 2 RT would be directly competing with Apple iPad Mini.
