New Microsoft Devices
New Microsoft devices were announced today!
Let's start off with the most disappointing devices... The Windows phones, Lumia 950/950XL. The best feature of the phone but yet to be tested is probably the 20MP camera; the camera always seems to be the greatest feature on Windows phones. The potential useful feature is Continuum, allowing users to experience a desktop feel when using a dock. While other phones have attempted to do the same thing, Microsoft seems to have a better experience but it would be much more useful if it was wireless. The lack of support for Windows phone is still a major reason not to get one. Another reason? AT&T has exclusive rights in the US for both phones. I don't understand why Microsoft would consider locking it to only AT&T in the states.
Now to the exciting devices!
HoloLens. The development kit is finally going to be released for $3000. It's going to be amazing to see how developers take advantage of the technology.
Microsoft Surface Pro 4. With the Apple stepping up its game with the iPad Pro, Microsoft did the same with Surface and upgraded to the next generation of Intel processors, Skylake. The Surface pen is now even more sensitive, has an eraser, and magnetically attaches to the device; the sensitivity has always been one of the major differentiators of the Surface. With Windows 10, I'm convinced that the Microsoft Surface 4 is a device that could be very useful and not just a tablet with a mobile OS, particular for artists and others who need a really good stylus.
(Price: $899 (Core M, 4GB RAM, 128GB) to $2699 (i7, 16GB RAM, 1TB))
Now, a brand new device: Microsoft Surface Book. Microsoft's first laptop. The display detaches from the body (the base has the GPU) and can be attached the other way to act like a tablet (again with amazing sensitivity like the Surface Pro 4). It is unclear what the display can do when it is detached though. This is the main reason I can't really give a honest opinion on the product as of now.
(Price: $1499 (i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB) to $2699 (i7, 16GB RAM, 512GB))
These devices are a really good sign for Microsoft. Taking a step out of Apple's book and creating devices to best show off their software (e.g. no bloatware). This means third party manufacturers will have to step up their products to compete with Microsoft devices. Microsoft definitely is getting positive feedback from its Windows 10 users.