Folks interested in picking up a Surface with Windows RT tablet either as a holiday gift or an end-of-year treat for themselves will find doing so to be just a tad easier starting later this month, as Microsoft has announced that it's increasing the production of its new slate and expanding its retail availability. The Redmond firm today revealed that it plans to make Surface with Windows RT available "at additional retailers" in mid-December, though it didn't mention exactly which retailers those might be. Microsoft also says that it will be transitioning several of its holiday pop-up Microsoft stores into permanent outlets.
The only way to buy a Surface right now is from one of Microsoft's stores or its website. An expanded retail availability will give the public more opportunities to become aware of the Surface with Windows RT and perhaps even try the thing out before committing to a purchase, both of which could help give a bit of a boost to Surface's sales figures. Of course, we don't yet know which retailers will begin stocking the slate, which is something that will also play a factor into whether or not this move will increase sales. We'll give you a shout with more details once Microsoft announces them. Any of you out there already rocking a Surface with Windows RT tablet? If so, what do you think of it?
UPDATE: As noted by The Verge, both Staples and Best Buy have confirmed that they'll begin offering the Surface with Windows RT starting tomorrow, December 12. Best Buy has specified that will only have Surface online on that date, though, with in-store availability planned for December 16.
