The Surface Pro 3 is slated for release later this Friday, but only for the Core i5 versions coming in 128 GB and 256 GB ranges. The more budget friendly Core i3 and wallet-busting Core i7 configurations, however, are not due until the end of August.
Microsoft may be dealing with somewhat high demand though, as the $999 Core i5 version with 128 GB now has a June 30 ship-by date, slipping by 10 days from June 20. The change in shipping appears only to apply to new purchases, and not early pre-orders. Accordingly, if you reserved your Surface Pro 3 128 GB prior to the last 24 hours, your new tablet/laptop hybrid should still be on track for delivery.
Presumably, Microsoft and Best Buy will also have the128 GB version on-hand in stores for immediate purchase starting Friday as well.
Does this mean that Microsoft is pushing more than anticipated inventory for the Surface Pro 3? It's too early to tell as production numbers could be lower than the 256 GB version, or other supply issues could be causing the delay. It will certainly be interesting to see how well the Surface Pro 3 sells in its first weekend, with many eyes on the high profile and category-breaking device.
Microsoft Stores and select Best Buy locations already have the Surface Pro 3 on display to the public, letting consumers get an early-look at Microsoft latest creation. As part of a promotion, Microsoft Stores will offer an exclusive Red Type Cover, with Best Buy getting select access to their dark Blue Type Cover.
The Surface Pro 3 news follows our earlier story observing substantial discounts on the Surface Pro 2 by up to $200 as Microsoft plans to reduce current stock.
How many of you have ordered your Surface Pro 3 already and if not, are you going to go to the store to see it?
Source: Microsoft Store (US); via Tablet PC Review forums; Thanks, Joe920, for the tip!
