Here's What to Expect in Tech This Week
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Major tech companies will be fighting for the spotlight in coming days as they gear up to roll out their latest products before this holiday season.
Apple, Microsoft, Google and Samsung are all planning to launch new devices over the next two weeks in their final push to pitch their products before holiday shopping swings into full gear.
Here's what to expect from the tech titans.
Apple to Unveil 'iPad Mini'
Apple is hosting an event Tuesday and is expected to unveil a smaller iPad. The tablet is expected to have a 7.85-inch display screen and cost between $200 and $350.
The iPad maker is also expected to reveal a smaller MacBook Pro with Retina Display.
Samsung's Galaxy Note II
Samsung's Galaxy Note II, a smartphone and tablet hybrid, hits U.S. stores shelves on Wednesday. The "phablet" is expected to be a contender with the Apple's iPhone this holiday season.
Microsoft Windows 8 & Surface Tablet
Microsoft launches it new operating system Windows 8 and its Surface tablet on Friday. The Windows 8 operating system is not a normal update to the company's OS. In Microsoft's push to become a force in the mobile market, the software was designed for touch-screen devices.
The Surface tablet, which the company revealed in June, became available for pre-order last week. Pricing starts at $499 for a 32GB version with a black touch cover and $699 for a 64 GB version with a black touch cover.
Microsoft's Windows Phone 8
Along with a new operating system and the launch of the Surface tablet, Microsoft is hosting an event in San Francisco on Oct. 29 to show off its Windows Phone 8, which became available for pre-order Sunday. Windows Phone 8 is launching on several different devices, including Nokia's Lumina 920 handset and HTC 8X phone.
Google's Nexus Phone and Nexus 7 Tablet
Google is expected to unveil a lot at its Oct. 29 event. There is speculation that the company will announce the latest version of the Android operation system, a new Nexus phone made by LG, a new Nexus tablet and an upgrade to the current Nexus 7 tablet at the event.
Google is also expected to introduce a Nexus 7 tablet with more memory and reveal a Samsung 10-inch tablet.
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