NextBook_1Microsoft South Africa has brought two new low-cost devices to the market in the form of the Nextbook.

The company has partnered with retailer Makro where the devices will be sold in two variations.

The 8″ device is more for those who want a tablet and portable entertainment, while the 10″ device is aimed at those who want to be productive on-the-go. Both devices will come installed with the Windows 8.1 operating system. This is a stand out feature compared to other tablets that come with mobile operating systems.

The biggest drawcard for these devices are their price points. The 8″ Nextbook is priced at R1499 and the 10.1″ Nextbook, detachable keyboard included, is priced at R2999. Essentially, you can get the full Windows 8.1 operating system on a device for as little as R1499!

Nextbook10-1

This announcement comes after Microsoft outlined their strategy for South Africa back in April (which I covered on TechCentral here). Microsoft’s Melanie Botha, consumer channels group leader, says they are delivering on a promise to bring affordable devices to the market.

Both devices don’t have SIM card slots as Microsoft says there’s no need for it and users can connect to the internet via WiFi.

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Users who purchase the Nextbook will get a bunch of value adds, like a one year subscription to Office365; unlimited OneDrive cloud storage; 60 Skype World Call minutes per month, valid during the 12 month subscription period.

Specs:

Nextbook 8 Nextbook 10.1
Screen 8-inch 1280×800 LCD 10.1-inch 1280×800 IPS screen
Processor Intel Atom 1.8GHz quad core Intel Atom 1.83GHz quad-core
RAM & Storage 1GB; 16GB on board 1GB; 32GB on board
Camera 0.3MP front; 2MP back 0.3MP front; 2MP back
Port Micro HDMI; micro SD; USB Micro HDMI; micro SD; USB
Connectivity Bluetooth; WiFi; 3 axis G sensor Bluetooth; WiFi; 3 axis G sensor
Battery 4000mAh 6000mAh