Microsoft is trying to straddle two models and risks failing at both. The Surface will apparently be both a touch based device but also a more traditional deskt

Microsoft is trying to straddle two models and risks failing at both. The Surface will apparently be both a touch based device but also a more traditional desktop. The problem will be when buyers expect desktop performance out of a lower power device. For applications that are designed for a touch interface from the start, it's comparatively easy to optimize for performance, or at least the appearance of performance and responsiveness. But load up something huge with a heavy footprint (Office/Outlook etc) and it's a different kettle of fish. If MS can pull this off, while still hitting battery life and price points, hats off to them.