It was just one week ago that we brought you exclusive photos and details about Microsoft’s Surface 2 with LTE. Priced at $679, the added benefit for LTE anywhere (on AT&T) will cost an extra $130 for the 64 GB machine. Now, Microsoft has made it official, and the device will go on sale tomorrow at Microsoft Stores and Best Buy.
Microsoft has not announced any new carriers for the Surface 2 with LTE, just AT&T and eventually Vodafone in the UK (announcement coming later). The device itself is exactly the same as the current generation of Surface 2 devices, with just a little extra weight (5 paper clips, according to Paul Thurrott, who was able to preview the device).
The Surface 2 with LTE should be a nice option for those who need connectivity everywhere, while having access to full a full Office suite and reliable battery life. Combined with the Touch or Type covers, the Surface 2 with LTE should be a powerful mobile solution for many professionals or students.
A contract with AT&T is reportedly not needed, meaning users can drop in any SIM as it is SIM unlocked. However, it’s optimized (i.e. compatible) with AT&T’s LTE network, so if you try to use it on Verizon or T-Mobile, you will probably show a decline in network performance. The SIM tray also does not need a tool to open it up; instead you can just use your fingernail.
People who buy the Surface 2 with LTE will also get 200 GB of added storage on OneDrive in addition to Microsoft Office Home & Student 2013 RT and Outlook 2013 RT.
The Surface 2 with LTE goes on sale tomorrow at Microsoft Stores and Best Buy. Microsoft has not announced a Surface Pro 2 with LTE, nor commented on the prospects of that happening. So far, it’s only the 64 GB version for AT&T (and eventually Vodafone).
I’ll be picking one up tomorrow and will post my thoughts later in the day.
Source: Surface Blog
