Head down to US AT&T stores later this month
It seems like it has been a while since Microsoft first announced its Surface technology. Heck, who are we kidding, it has been a while.
Still, the delayed device has finally found its way, and Microsoft, together with US mobile operator, AT&T, will be bringing Surface to life in a selection of AT&T stores starting April 17th.
The stores in question are based in New York City, Atlanta, San Antonio and San Francisco, and based on how well Surface fares at these locations, the device could be expanded to across 2,200 AT&T stores.
The 30in touchscreen table, pictured above, will allow AT&T customers to review the features of a particular mobile device by placing it on the 'Surface'. By placing two devices, customers will be able to easily compare features. Other functionality available to customers will include the ability to view interactive coverage maps and in future, the ability to drag and drop ring tones and other multimedia content.
Robbie Bach, president, Entertainment & Devices Division, Microsoft, said:
"Microsoft Surface transforms the retail environment from a transaction destination to a customer engagement destination. With innovative and intuitive ways of accessing information and digital content on Microsoft Surface, consumers now have an entirely new, unique and personalised shopping experience. We’re excited to have AT&T bring this to life and be the first company showcasing Surface in its retail locations."
The introduction of Surface at AT&T stores comes as positive news for consumers hoping to one day get their hands on Surface in the home. With Microsoft now seemingly ready to deploy in the retail market, and eager to bring Surface to home users, the technology could be in our living rooms sooner than we'd hoped.
HEXUS .channel editor, Scott Bicheno, has shared his thoughts on a technology that "may well become a standard sales tool for tech retailers in Las Vegas", head on over to HEXUS .channel for further coverage.
Official press release: AT&T First to Introduce Microsoft Surface in Retail Stores to Enhance Mobile Shopping Experience
