Microsoft Surface to launch on April 17

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After its worldwide unveiling 11 months back, Microsoft, announcing the launch of the first commercially available surface computer, has said that its new 'Surface' system will revolutionize the market. The Seattle based giant stated on its website that 'Surface' will "transform the way people shop, dine, entertain and live."

"Microsoft Surface transforms the retail environment from a transaction destination to a customer engagement destination. With innovative and intuitive ways of accessing information and digital content on Microsoft Surface, consumers now have an entirely new, unique and personalized shopping experience," Robbie Bach, President, Entertainment & Devices Division, Microsoft, said.

The system that transforms an entire table into one big touch-screen will go live in some US hotels and casinos soon, letting customers order food direct as well as play music and games. The 'Surface' is a 30-inch table-like display that gives individuals or multiple people the opportunity to interact with devices and content in a way that feels familiar, by using touch, gestures and placement of devices on the display. In essence, it is a surface that has come to life for exploring, learning, sharing, creating, buying and much more.

Microsoft has entered into a collaborative alliance with cellular carrier AT&T making it the first company in the world to bring Microsoft Surface to life in a retail environment, giving customers the ability to explore their mobile worlds using touch and device recognition technology.

"We are thrilled to bring this groundbreaking new technology to our stores so we can introduce customers to their mobile worlds in a very personal and easy way," said Ralph de la Vega, President and CEO, AT&T Mobility. "We look forward to working with Microsoft to continue developing new ways for our customers to learn about the ever-growing lineup of mobile devices and applications."

Microsoft's Bach said, "We're excited to have AT&T bring this [Microsoft Surface] to life and be the first company showcasing Surface in its retail locations."

The initial models of 'Surface' will appear in chosen AT&T's flagship stores, including New York, Atlanta, San Antonio and San Francisco stores. Based on the success and learning from these initial pilot deployments, plans for further expansion across AT&T's 2,200 U.S. retail stores will be determined.

AT&T plans to mobilize the power of Microsoft Surface to provide its retail store visitors with unique opportunities to keep themselves up-to-date with the ever-expanding universe of mobile applications and devices. The interactive touch displays, which will work without a traditional mouse or keyboard, will allow customers to do the review features of a particular mobile device by simply placing it on the display. 'Surface' will recognize the device and provide a graphical overview of its capabilities. Customers will be able to place two devices side by side on the unit and easily compare their features.

Customers will also be able to explore as they can view interactive coverage maps at the national, state, local or street level, using simple touch and hand movement to scale and move the maps, determining their coverage area.

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