The REAL tablet wars are about to start

[htismaqe]

Oops, I posted this in the wrong thread...

So I just had a discussion with a customer about Surface, RT, and Windows 8. They're a BIG fan and say they much prefer Microsoft's solution vs. the iPad and Android. Why?

Because it runs all the shit they already run. That's the pitch, right there.

Great new features? Maybe. But it runs Office!

I've come to realize that most of our discussion is misplaced. Of course the potential $1200 price tag is too high - for a HOME USER.

[HC_Chief]

Originally Posted by htismaqe

Because it runs all the shit they already run. That's the pitch, right there.

Great new features? Maybe. But it runs Office!

That is exactly the selling point: combining the form factor, consumer capability, and laptop/pc functionality into a single device.

The iPad is a great consumer device; it was revolutionary, but really no more than a high-tech toy. The potential is absolutely there; problem is Apple has their ecosystem completely locked down. While this is a boon for them in the short term, Microsoft's bet it is a long-term bust. If the Surface can combine the form factor with the functionality of the laptop, why continue screwing around with Apple's consumer product?

[htismaqe]

Originally Posted by HC_Chief

That is exactly the selling point: combining the form factor, consumer capability, and laptop/pc functionality into a single device.

That's just the thing - at a price point of over $1000, it has ZERO "consumer" capability.

My customer literally said they don't care how much it costs, it runs Windows and Office and that's what they need.

Microsoft is the RJ Reynolds of the 21st century.

Originally Posted by HC_Chief

The iPad is a great consumer device; it was revolutionary, but really no more than a high-tech toy. The potential is absolutely there; problem is Apple has their ecosystem completely locked down. While this is a boon for them in the short term, Microsoft's bet it is a long-term bust.

Microsoft envies Apple's locked down ecosystem. They're actively trying to emulate it.

Originally Posted by HC_Chief

If the Surface can combine the form factor with the functionality of the laptop, why continue screwing around with Apple's consumer product?

Because Apple's consumer product has a consumer price point. The Surface, right now, does not.