I agree with the post by "hometoy". Apple has done very well by combining hardware and software, in spite of their draconian control. With the Surface, from a consumer perspective, I believe Microsoft is taking the right approach. They need to compete successfully against Apple, so producing a compelling hardware platform is essential. However, Microsoft is addressing some of the biggest complaints against Apple, specifically Micro SD and USB ports. The Surface will have both. I can use whatever mouse, keyboard, or other USB peripheral I want, and I have expandable memory options. Other hardware manufacturers have been making tablets for years now, but it took Microsoft to come up with the idea of a keyboard in the cover, combined with a built-in stand ("kickstand"); simple, elegant, and right on target for consumers. I'm sure the 1.0 release will have some issues, especially software-wise, but I really like what I see so far.