If any accessory is likely a necessity for the majority of your customers, put it in the box with the tablet. If you only build one keyboard option for your Windows tablet, think about throwing it in with the tablet. Be sure and price them realistically, though, especially if your tablet is already expensive. Buyers like choice, and that’s what you give them with more than one keyboard option. Some Windows tablet makers are already producing such accessories, and that’s a good thing. People expect to use a Windows device with a keyboard at least some of the time, and the lack of one will likely put them off. Neglecting to build such a keyboard accessory, or better yet multiple styles to give buyers a choice, will likely see that shiny new tablet languish on the shelves.
Whether this is the form of a laptop dock that turns the Windows tablet into a full laptop replacement, or a portfolio, or a simple cover, OEMs should release one at the same time as the tablet hits the market. Having a good keyboard solution is vital for attracting buyers for the tablet, and for making them happy. I’m not alone in this regard based on conversations with many Windows tablet users. That’s how I end up using every Windows tablet more often than not. While all of these tablets work fine in the hand, Windows 8 seems more natural when used with a keyboard. I’ve used several with laptop docks, and one with a mobile Bluetooth keyboard. That’s been my experience with other Windows tablets, too. The company knew that many buyers, perhaps most of them, would end up using the Surface as a laptop rather than a tablet. It produced a line of keyboard covers, now numbering three, from the get-go with the Surface. Use it on your desk, lap or anywhere within 30' of your tablet. Microsoft realized this would be the case early on with its Surface tablets. Keyboard includes keys to help you navigate Windows 8, including a Start key, App Switching key and direct access to the Search, Share, Devices and Settings charm functions. While it’s certainly possible to use them naked in the hand, I’ll bet most get used with a keyboard. That’s due to the thin, light form of the tablet which is good to use in the hands. They may be used without accessories, or perhaps with minimal covers like Apple’s Smart Cover.
Unlike tablets on other platforms, having good accessories available is important for those running Windows.Īnd a few Android tablets, too. That Windows works so well on tablets is why we’re seeing so many brought to market. Microsoft undertook a big challenge in making Windows 8 work well on both desktops, laptops, and tablets.