Much like Apple’s Smart Cover does with the iPad, Touch Cover connects to Surface via magnets on the device’s side. When opened up, the inside of the 3mm cover has a full multi-touch keyboard with trackpad. During its presentation, Microsoft focused on how book-like Surface will feel with the case on.
"Nothing stirs me more than Touch Cover." Panos Panay, a designer for Microsoft said while showing off the Touch Cover at the event. "This spine feels like a book. You'll hold it like a book. It will feel like it's another book when you carry it with books."
Touch Cover was designed by Steven Bathiche, a Microsoft research director who likes to focus specifically on "creating novel human interfaces and computer form factors," according to his company bio.
The keyboard cover uses a unique pressure-sensitive technology Microsoft says will allow you to type significantly faster than you can using an on-screen keyboard.
If you’re a fan of traditional keys, Microsoft has another product called Type Cover. The case has a full track pad with clicking buttons, just like those you might be accustomed to on your home computer. Tactile keys take up a bit more space, so the Type Cover ends up being 5mm thick (2mm thicker than the Touch Cover).
When you’re ready to start typing with either keyboard, Surface has a built-in kickstand for holding the tablet up at just the right angle to give the tablet a laptop-like feel.
Keyboard covers will also be available in an assortment of colors -- including blue, red, pink, and black -- in order to work with your own personal style or needs.