FWIW, the Surface can actually function (more or less) as an actual part of an Active Directory domain. It’s essentially an actual PC, rather than a tablet, and can run the gamut of actual Microsoft software, including the Office suite (right up to Project), Outlook integrated with Exchange, and many many other tools that only run on “real” computers, as opposed to the more restrictive ecosystems of Android and Apple.
So the Surface is probably doing well because real businesses can safely buy it, just like Windows does so well because businesses can safely buy it.
I have some experience with this. There is some truth to what you say, but you have to keep in mind that the Surface Pro is an actual PC, while the Surface RT is not, and the latter is very limited as to software availability/functionality (e.g., it cannot use a Cisco remote access VPN, which is built into the iPad).
Also, the wifi drivers for the Surface Pro are buggy and limited in their customizability.
Bingo
Had one user bring in his (early version, non-pro) Surface in the hopes of joining our corporate domain - he returned it and bought an iPad.
There are many occasions I could use a native Windows desktop when I am not at my desk.
That was my take too. The functionality of the Surface has convinced the business/office market to start using tablets. The thing is, to get one that is fully decked out is just as or more expansive than a laptop.
Yes, you are on mark with your commentary but it is also an ‘awesome’ device meaning people are attracted to its table in electronic stores for longer periods of time than iOS or Android devices, and that attraction ends up forming a line or a moving backdrop of people who keep coming back to see if they can squeeze in.
Nokia smartphones which Microsoft now owns are also ‘awesome’ and their camera capabilities are show-stoppers. Nothing even comes close to their dazzling features and capabilities.
And all the devices and computers sync up quickly and effortlessly.
My 8-year old could not get enough of the Surface Pro 3 stylus. I have never thought in my life to think of using a stylus until I saw the Surface Pro 3 stylus. It is amazing in the sense that it can do things on the Surface Pro 3 touchscreen that are actually of great utility to users as well as graphics artists. The Surface Pro 3 is a winner, no doubt about it.
And I have bothered to peek ahead and see what’s coming. Windows 10 is going to be a sure winner as well. The new CEO of Microsoft has his head screwed on right and the whole company is now functioning to give the user a pleasant and great experience without new shocks to their existing habits. They really have turned a corner.
I’ve seen them, and they are not cheap, but seem to be pretty well made and have good specs.
I still don’t understand the point of any tablet. I mean, if you’ve got a smartphone and a laptop, why do you need a tablet at all?
To me it’s all of the inconvenience of not having a laptop, combined with no phone. A computer is better for computer stuff and a phone is better for phone stuff. Get two good things and skip the middleman.
Just... why?