Microsoft's line of tablet computers not posing any threat to the iPad

That seems to be the consensus among a number of analysts.

The name sounds lame though the overall package looks competitive enough. Still, it seems the iPad will continue dominating the tablet computer market. Many believe that the lack of interest among developers to produce applications (apps) for the device is going to be its major drawback.

The new Windows operating system is, as it is, new and deemed unlikely to pique the enthusiasm of app developers. There are no indications that Surface will become an iPad killer considering that even Android-powered devices from Samsung and other top electronic brands have not diminished the Apple brand in recent years.

For analysts, the most important factor that would pave the way for a tablet's success is its ecosystem. The apparent lack of interest from developers, as many in the know would put it, can spell failure for the new Microsoft product.

Surface is powered by the Windows 8 operating system, a software that is arguably less popular and less coveted at present. Apple's clout remains to be strong among consumers and Windows should find a way to increase its relatively scarcer than hen's teeth number of apps to meaningfully compete against iOS's.

Nevertheless, Microsoft Surface offers features that many should find interesting though they may not be enough for then to buy the product or to abandon their Apple loyalty.

Some of the highlights of the Surface are the magnetically-attached 3mm thin Touch Cover that folds down to serve as a comfortable touch keyboard. The device is also available in a variety of colors.

Here are the specs of the two versions of Microsoft Surface tablet:

Surface (Windows RT)
CPU    : Nvidia Tegra 3
OS       : Windows 8 RT
Display : 10.6 inches (resolution to be announced but is described as HD)
Thickness     : .37 inches
Weight  : 1.5 lbs.
Ports     : microSD, USB 2.0, micro HD video, 2x2 MiMO Antennae
Memory: 32/64
Camera : front and back
Battery  : 31.5 watt-hour

Surface (Windows Pro)
CPU    : Intel Core i5
OS       : Windows 8 Pro
Display : 10.6 inches (resolution to be announced but is described as HD)
Thickness     : .37 inches
Weight  : 1.5 lbs.
Ports     : microSDXC, USB 3.0, Mini DisplayPort, 2x2 MiMO Antennea
Camera : front and back
Memory: 32/64
Battery  : 42 watt-hour