Microsoft 'Scratches' the Surface: Tech Weekly

NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- The big tech story of the week wasn't about Apple(AAPL) , but it was iPad-related.

Microsoft(MSFT) unveiled its first-ever branded tablet, the Microsoft Surface, on Monday.

Microsoft did not release pricing or availability details for the tablets, but CEO Steve Ballmer said their prices would be "competitive" with other tablets on the market. The Windows RT version is 9.3 millimeters thin, comes with USB 2.0 ports, and has a similar weight to Apple's iPad. The Windows 8 Pro version is slightly thicker and heavier. Both devices come with a keyboard and a small cover that's held on by magnets, similar to Apple's SmartCover.

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The Surface tablets will be integrated with various Microsoft products, including Xbox, Skype and Kinect, as the software giant seeks to link its hardware and software.

Shares of Microsoft gained 2.27% this week to close at $30.70.