Tablets and convertibles[edit]

Microsoft released minimum hardware requirements for new tablet and convertible devices certified for Windows 8, and defined a convertible form factor as a standalone device that combines the PC, display and rechargeable power source with a mechanically attached keyboard and pointing device in a single chassis. A convertible can be transformed into a tablet where the attached input devices are hidden or removed leaving the display as the only input mechanism.[121][122] On March 12, 2013, Microsoft amended its certification requirements to only require that screens on tablets have a minimum resolution of 1024×768 (down from the previous 1366×768). The amended requirement is intended to allow "greater design flexibility" for future products.[123]
Hardware certification requirements for Windows tablets[124]Graphics card    DirectX 10 graphics device with WDDM 1.2 or higher driver
Storage    10 GB free space, after the out-of-box experience completes
Standard buttons    'Power', 'Rotation lock', 'Windows Key', 'Volume-up', 'Volume-down'
Screen    Touch screen supporting a minimum of 5-point digitizers and resolution of at least 1024×768. The physical dimensions of the display panel must match the aspect ratio of the native resolution. The native resolution of the panel can be greater than 1024 (horizontally) and 768 (vertically). Minimum native color depth is 32-bits. If the display is under 1366×768, disclaimers must be included in documentation to notify users that the Snap function is not available.[123]
Camera    Minimum 720p
Accelerometer    3 axes with data rates at or above 50 Hz
USB 2.0    At least one controller and exposed port.
Connect    Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0 + LE (low energy)
Other    Speaker, microphone, magnetometer and gyroscope.

If a mobile broadband device is integrated into a tablet or convertible system, then an assisted GPS radio is required. Devices supporting near field communication need to have visual marks to help users locate and use the proximity technology. The new button combination for Ctrl + Alt + Del is Windows Key + Power.


Updated certification requirements will be implemented to coincide with Windows 8.1. In 2014, all certified devices with integrated displays must contain a 720p webcam and higher quality speakers and microphones, while all certified devices that support Wi-Fi must support Bluetooth as well. In 2015, all certified devices must contain Trusted Platform Module 2.0 chips.[125][126]
Editions and pricing[edit]