Microsoft to showcase Surface to partners

Microsoft is preparing to showcase its recently announced Surface computer to partners, as it begins to move into the next phase of its development.

But the head of Microsoft’s partner program, Allison Watson has warned it could be a while before they get hands on with Surface and begin programming for it.

"Starting in April [2008], I think the hope is we can launch an actual (software development kit) for partners," Watson said in an interview at Microsoft’s Worldwide Partner Conference. "Before we do that, we thought we’d bring in real partners to help us."

Microsoft is primarily focusing the device on the hospitality, gaming and retail markets. It is expected to cost around $10,000 (£5,000) when it goes on sale.