Microsoft has let loose a whole mess of Surface news this morning, including specific retail availability information for its Surface Windows 8 Pro model. The Redmond firm today revealed that the Intel Core i5-powered Surface Windows 8 Pro will launch on Feb. 9 (a tad later than its previous estimate) at Microsoft's retail stores and its Surface website as well as Best Buy and Staples locations. The Surface Windows 8 Pro will be available in either with 64GB of storage for $899 or 128GB of memory for $999, and both versions will include a Surface pen stylus.

The Surface Windows 8 Pro differs from its Surface Windows RT sibling in that while the RT model can only run apps from the Windows Store, the Windows 8 Pro unit runs straight up Windows 8 (as the name implies) and can also run Windows 7 desktop apps. The Surface Windows 8 Pro features a 10.6-inch 1920x1080 touchscreen and a camera on its face, along with a second camera around back. Buried inside its VaporMg casing is an Intel Core i5 processor, 4GB RAM, 64GB or 128GB storage, USB 3.0 port and a microSDXC card slot.

While the Surface Windows 8 Pro is quite a bit pricier than the Surface Windows RT, the fact that it includes an Intel Core i5 processor and can run Windows 7 desktop apps means that it's a more viable laptop replacement than the the RT model. Of course, the opinion on whether or not the Surface Windows 8 Pro and a keyboard cover could actually replace a laptop in daily use will vary from person to person. The good news is that anyone interested in finding that out first-hand will be able to do so in just a couple of weeks.

Next up, Microsoft revealed that it also plans to offer a standalone 64GB version of the ARM-powered Surface Windows RT device. The company currently offers the 64GB slate on its website in a bundle with a black Touch Cover for $699, but this new version will come with just the Surface Windows RT tablet and a price tag of $599, giving customers the ability to pick up the larger Surface Windows RT model and select the keyboard cover of their choosing.

Also unveiled today is a set of some Surface accessories. A limited edition set of Touch Cover models will be offered in red, magenta or cyan, each with a special design printed on them. Those covers will be priced at $129.99 each. Microsoft also introduced a Surface Edition Wedge Touch Mouse for $69.95. Microsoft's full announcement for all of its new products can be found right here. Would you consider opening your wallet for any of the products detailed today by Microsoft?

Via Microsoft