Microsoft introduces Surface

A few hours ago, Microsoft introduced it's new computing platform, called "Surface".

Surface is tabletop computing featuring a multi-touch screen interface, with obvious applications in hotel, restaurant and retail industries. Using a combination of touch and gesture, users can work and interact in a more natural way, with computers.

New devices won't be introduced until the fall/winter and will cost between $5K and $10K. At the moment they will be offering a 30" tabletop with other form factors promised in the future.

What I find surprising is that no one seems ambivalent about this technology. Some reviewers write it off as "nothing new" while others see it as "the future". I'm somewhere in between.

For me, Surface looks like it was designed by Apple. I think the interface will resonate with future users and of course, that will be the key.

I doubt the machine will do away with waiters and waitresses or the hotel concierge - after all someone will have to be around to reboot the thing! (I couldn't resist!). Besides it's obvious "cool factor", the adoption rate will depend on the answer to the questions: will this help me sell more wine? fill more hotel rooms?