Can’t say we weren’t expecting this, though we’re surprisingly pleased with the result. The tablet is enclosed in a vapor-deposited magnesium casing (what this means to you: thinner and stronger), has a pop-out kickstand and comes in 2 flavors: an ARM-processor based running Windows RT (an ARM-based version of the OS), and a thicker, heavier and technologically beefier Intel-powered variant running full blown Windows 8 Pro. Microsoft’s Touch Cover ain’t too shabby, either: think of it like a 3mm thick touch sensitive keyboard- and trackpad-equipped smart cover. Alternately, the thicker Type Cover features mechanical keys.

Head to Microsoft (or better yet Engadget) to learn more – $TBA.