Surface Pro 3
Panos Panay, Corp. Vice President for Surface Computing at Microsoft Corp, unveils the latest models of the Surface tablet in New York. Reuters

Yesterday at a press event in New York City Microsoft revealed its all new Surface Pro 3 tablet. Microsoft's Panos Panay highlighted a number of improvements for the Surface Pro 3 and here are 4 things you should know about the tablet:

1. It's Super Thin! -- The Surface Pro 3 measures 9.1 mm thick and weighs only 800 grams (1.76 lbs.), making it thinner and lighter than a MacBook Air. To prove his point Panay placed both devices on a scientific balance scale to highlight the differences.

2. It's a Powerhouse -- Utilizing a 12-inch screen with a resolution of 2160 x 1440 which puts the Surface Pro 3 as a prime contender for Apple's iPad Air. The tablet also offers up to nine hours of battery life web surfacing and is powered by a 4th generation Intel Core i3, i5 or i7.

3. Able to install and run desktop apps -- In support of its argument that the Surface Pro 3 can replace a notebook computer, Microsoft partnered with Adobe to show a preview of Photoshop optimized for the tablet, with larger icons and support for both stylus and touch input. Microsoft also claims the device is able to support software like the full Microsoft Office Suite.

4. New Surface Pen Stylus -- During the presentation a new aluminum stylus pen was revealed. The new pen feels more realistic and comfortable in your hand. Plus offers 256 levels of pressure sensitivity and super thin optical stack of the Surface Pro 3 allow for greater precision with the stylus and makes it appear as if ink is flowing directly from the pen tip. The device also features palm block technology so you can rest your hand on the tablet while taking notes and not worry.

Microsoft also revealed a handful of new accessories, including a Type Cover that is thinner than its predecessor while offering a much larger trackpad for $130. A $200 docking station converts the Surface Pro 3 into a desktop workstation, including Ethernet, Mini DisplayPort, USB, and audio ports.

Pricing starts at $799 with pre-orders beginning today. Availability will expand with additional models and countries this coming August.

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