Microsoft Surface Pro to Launch February 9

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Microsoft has announced that its long-anticipated Surface Pro tablet will officially launch on February 9. Unlike the previously released Surface RT, the Pro runs the full version of Windows 8, meaning it can run legacy Windows applications.

Mashable’s Pete Pachal reported, “If you liked the Microsoft Surface RT tablet but wished you could run classic Windows apps on it, you won’t have to wait much longer. The Surface Pro — the more powerful version of the tablet that runs full Windows 8 Pro — will be on store shelves Feb. 9.”

CNET’s Scott Stein added, “The Surface Pro has a Core i5 or Core i7 Intel processor and either 64GB or 128GB of onboard storage, starting at $899 ($999 for the 128GB version). Unlike some Surface RT bundles, the Surface Pro doesn’t come with a Type Cover or Touch Cover–those are sold separately at $130/$120. It does come with a pressure-sensitive Surface Pen stylus with palm-rejection technology that magnetically clips to the charging port. Add in a Type Cover (incredibly useful but not essential if you have your own keyboard and mouse) and the Surface Pro will effectively start at $1029.”

GigaOm’s Kevin C. Tofel explained, “Unlike its predecessor, which runs on an ARM-based chip, the new Surface runs a full version of Windows 8 Pro in addition to having the touch friendly user interface formerly known as Metro. That removes a key limitation of the Surface RT device: Surface Windows 8 Pro can run all legacy Windows applications. And the device will certainly be a better performer, although that will come at the cost of battery life: Microsoft has previously said to expect half the run-time compared to Surface RT. I’d expect 4 to 5 hours on a charge as a result.”

SlashGear’s Chris Burns noted, “This week the folks at Microsoft have announced not only the availability of the Surface Pro, but of a new version of the Surface RT, complete with a 64GB edition for the masses. Also announced were a collection of accessories, they joining the Surface RT 64GB party on the 9th of February with three new Surface Touch Cover Limited Editions as well as a Wedge Touch Mouse Surface Edition for your enjoyment. The market for the Surface Windows RT is also being expanded to double that of the places you’re able to purchase it today.”