When Microsoft talks about getting into devices so that it can integrate hardware and software in a way that HP, Dell, Acer and others don't or can't, one does not have to ponder long which competitor it has in its sights.
But you can't accuse Microsoft of copying Apple's clean product segmentation between iPad and MacBook. Indeed, the latest Windows releases support devices that mash together the best of -- and worst of -- the notebook and tablet. Among these are the Surface RT and Surface Pro. With its long battery life and $499 starting price, Surface RT is clearly trying to take on the iPad. But Surface -- with its precious adornments such as the kickstand and typing covers -- seeks out a customer who is yearning to use a tablet for more of the kinds of things traditionally done with PCs.
