Doubling Down On Microsoft Surface: Second Time A Success?

Microsoft (MSFT), not traditionally a hardware vendor, has switched tack and intends to become a devices and services company. Its first major launch in this new direction was the Surface line of tablets. Microsoft, unusually, was able to sneak this launch upon the tech world virtually unnoticed; there were very few leaks -- a rarity indeed. The launch consisted of two tablet computers with an innovative design including a kickstand and touch cover as notable features. Unfortunately, these tablets have not been very successful and Microsoft took a $900 millioncharge related to tablets in its last quarter.

Don't give up - Most companies will not take a $900 million write down lightly and may reconsider this particular line of business, not Microsoft, it shrugged off this loss and has just recently launched new versions of both of its tablets. Read more