Sony unveils Vaio Tap 11, a Surface-like Windows 8 tablet

Looks like Sony is going after Surface customers with the new Vaio Tap 11 tablet PC. It runs on the full version of Windows 8, so users will be able to use legacy Windows software on it along with the Windows 8 apps and games on the Windows Store.

Keeping the Vaio Tap 11’s heart beating is an unspecified Intel chipset and there’s an SSD for storage. As you may have guessed by the name, the Tap 11 has an 11.6-inch Triluminos display with full HD resolution. It is equipped with an 8-megapixel camera, which is powered by an EXMOR RS sensor. Looks-wise it is inspired by the Xperia range of smartphones and there’s the now-ubiquitous aluminium power button as well to continue the theme.

The tablet comes with a full-pitch wireless keyboard, which also has a touchpad. The keyboard can be attached to the screen when not being used, thus doubling its use as a protective cover for the display, just like the Surface. The keyboard’s battery automatically recharges when it is connected to the tablet as a cover.

The Vaio Tap 11 has a couple of accessories to go along with it

Another accessory for the Tab 11 is a digitiser stylus. With it, users can immediately jot down notes or make scribbles, as if they were writing with a real pen on an actual piece of paper. The stylus can be used to make annotations on pictures too.

It comes equipped with Sony’s SlideView app, which essentially turns the tablet into a second screen for Bravia TVs. It also has an IR blaster, so you can use it as a wireless infrared remote for the TV with controls such as changing channels, adjusting TV volume and controlling other IR devices.

The tablet is equipped with the ClearAudio+ mode, which Sony claims optimises the sound of your content. It even comes with different preset settings and an equaliser. Music can be played through NFC speakers, headphones and other audio devices using Sony’s One-touch connectivity feature.

Available in a choice of black or white finishes, the new Vaio Tap 11 Windows 8 tablet PC is available in Europe from Autumn 2013. The company will announce the launch date for the rest of the world later.