My Journey with the Surface Pro 8: A Tablet for Reading?
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Chapter 1: Introduction to the Surface Pro 8
Earlier this week, I took a subway trip armed with my Surface Pro 8, eager to dive into some comic books via Comixology during my commute. This felt like the perfect chance to evaluate my Surface as a reading tablet, given its design is tailored for such tasks.
Section 1.1: Challenges with Android Apps
Getting an Android application like Comixology functioning on my Surface Pro 8 turned out to be more complicated than I anticipated, particularly since I am based in Canada.
Android Integration in Windows
One of the standout features introduced with Windows 11 was its capability to run Android applications sourced from the Amazon Appstore. This functionality was a key motivator for my Surface Pro 8 purchase, as I envisioned a more app-centric experience while on the move.
Sadly, the implementation of Android app support on Windows 11 has been sluggish. Initially, it was restricted to Insider builds, which I was hesitant to use. Later, it became publicly accessible but exclusively in the United States. This was frustrating, but after some tutorials, I managed to sideload the essential software to run Android apps. Although I couldn't get the Amazon Appstore working, I successfully sideloaded the Comixology app onto my device.
Section 1.2: The Form Factor Dilemma
I won't dwell too much on the form factor of the Surface Pro 8 as a tablet; it's manageable. However, if you plan to frequently use a Surface device as a tablet, you might be better off considering the Surface Go.
To protect the screen when not in use, I had the Surface Signature Keyboard attached. This setup reminded me of my experience with the iPad Pro and its Keyboard Folio case, which was always comfortable to use. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the Signature Keyboard on the Surface. It felt cumbersome, and I was constantly aware of pressing the keys, even when they weren’t responding.
Great for typing, but not ideal as a protective case.
The keyboard presents a mixed bag: while I was very aware of the keys, they functioned much better than the iPad's Keyboard Folio.
Chapter 2: User Experience Woes
However, the form factor was only a minor aspect of the challenges. The main issue with using the Surface Pro 8 as a tablet lies in Windows’ user interface. Regardless of the changes Microsoft makes for tablet use, persistent problems arise.
Inconsistent User Interaction
Accidentally touching the screen can lead to a series of unintended actions. For instance, I found myself stuck in guided view mode in Comixology without knowing how I arrived there, and there was no straightforward way to exit. Random comic size alterations added to the confusion, further complicating my reading experience. At one point, I was locked out completely, and entering my PIN simply led to another lockout.
The promise of running Android apps on the Surface is appealing, but it does not address the core issue that Windows’ user interface is fundamentally designed for a desktop experience.
Section 2.1: A Look Back at Windows 8
Now, I’m going to make a somewhat controversial statement within the tech community: Windows 8 had potential.
The primary misstep Microsoft made with the Metro interface was imposing it on all Windows 8 users. Many found it cumbersome and felt it sacrificed practicality for aesthetics. Microsoft aimed for a cohesive design across all their platforms—Xbox, Windows, and Windows Phone—unifying under the Metro style.
While the classic interface remained accessible, it was heavily intertwined with Metro’s design.
For those unfamiliar with Windows Phone, the Metro interface was its standout feature, evolving from the Zune interface. Despite its flaws, Zune’s interface was user-friendly and visually appealing. Windows Phone utilized customizable tiles that provided an engaging browsing experience on a portable device, a design ethos that still resonates in today's smartphones.
Microsoft had a winning concept with Metro, but they abandoned it following the backlash from Windows 8.
Section 2.2: Future Possibilities
Microsoft should have continued refining the Metro UI specifically for Surface devices to enhance the tablet experience. Had they evolved Metro into something akin to the Windows Phone interface, it could have been revolutionary.
Integrating Android apps with a refined Metro UI on the Surface is an idea I believe could lead to significant improvements. Unfortunately, as it stands, the Surface Pro 8 struggles as a tablet due to Microsoft's insistence on maintaining a desktop-centric user interface for mobile devices.
A comprehensive review of the Surface Pro 8, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses.
A guide on how to effectively read eBooks using the Surface Pro 8.