Microsoft Surface tablet will launch as Wi-Fi only

Microsoft’s exciting new Surface tablet just got a little less exciting. Rumours surrounding the Redmond company’s first own-branded tablet hardware are suggesting that the Surface will only have Wi-Fi connectivity options at launch, with no support for 3G or 4G mobile network connections.

According to Bloomberg sources “familiar with the matter”, neither the Microsoft Surface for Windows RT and Microsoft Surface for Windows 8 Pro variants will have mobile network support.

It seems significant oversight on Microsoft’s behalf. While many iPad and Android tablet owners don’t buy into the costly mobile data deals required for 3G or 4G access, there’s indeed something quite luxurious about browsing your favourite websites on a large screen while, say, down the park.

Even if Microsoft are positioning the Surface as more of a desktop/laptop replacement than mobile device, if the rumours are true they’ve missed a chance to put out a superlative device that ticks every box that their iPad rival does.

Via: Bloomberg