Microsoft Surface makes its debut and iPad Mini pre-orders start

CLEVELAND - Apple had its moment in the spotlight earlier in the week, and Friday, Microsoft is under the microscope as it opens pop-up stores across the country and debuts its tablet. The Surface is expected to be a competitor to the original iPad. "I was getting ready to go get an iPad," said student Chanrika Hall. "But this already comes with Microsoft for me to go to school with and I like the features, too."

Thirty-four Microsoft stores will open including in Beachwood Place. Microsoft said this will be the only place in Ohio where shoppers can demo the Surface tablet before purchasing it.

About 30 people were waiting in line at the mall to get a look at the Surface before it opened at 10 AM. A handful of people were waiting outside the mall at 8 AM before the mall doors opened.  "We were here about nine o'clock, so we were surprised how many people were here, so that's a good sign," said customer Larry Novak.

Many people want to get their hands on their device as there are big questions about the tablet’s capabilities. The apps are limited, and it only has a Wi-Fi connection.  "It's kind of their response to all these other devices, the iPads, the Android tablets," said analyst Justin Smith at Thundertech.  "They sense that that is kind of a major trend and they feel like they are behind."

The Surface comes with Windows RT (not Windows 8), Office Home and Student 2013 RT Preview.  It features these programs on a 10.6” HD display.

Here’s the pricing structure:
32GB $499
32GB with Black Touch Cover $599
64GB with Black Touch Cover $699

The keypad is an additional $129.99.

Shipments will begin on some units starting Friday. The majority will begin shipping in 1 to 3 weeks.

We have a crew at the opening and will bring you much more on the early editions of NewsChannel5.

Apple pre-sales start Friday
Meanwhile, Apple will start pre-sales for the iPad Mini on October 26. The Wi-Fi model will be available starting November 2 at stores.

The Mini is 7.87 inches.

Here’s the pricing structure:
Mini with Wi-Fi:
16 GB $329
32 GB $429
64GB $529

Mini with Wi-Fi and Cellular
16GB $459
32GB $559
64GB $659