Summary: Microsoft’s message is the Intel Core-based Surface Pro 3 will be ‘the tablet that can replace your laptop.(from www.zdnet.com)

Microsoft took the wraps off its third-generation Surface device on May 20 in New York City.

The device, dubbed the Surface Pro 3, is a 12-inch Intel Core i7-based device with a 2160 X 1440 resolution.  It has a 3X2 aspect ratio, is .36 inches thick and weighs 800 grams (without the keyboard).

Microsoft Surface: What you need to know

Microsoft is marketing the Pro 3 as “the tablet that can replace your laptop.”

Microsoft has played up its first two generations of Surface as devices that bridge consumption and creation, and can work as both tablets and laptops. At today’s announcement, Surface chief Panos Panay made sure to drive home that message.

A pen also is a key element of Microsoft’s pitch for these next-generation devices. A button on the end of the pen allows users to open OneNote automatically with a press. The new kickstand on the device has a new “canvas mode” angle (of 150 degrees) that is meant to improve “lapability.” Microsoft is quoting battery life of “up to nine hours.”

There will be a docking station and new type covers in a variety of colors for the Surface 3. The track pads on the new keyboards are larger and better for scrolling, Panay said.

The Surface Pro 3 will come in three versions: Core i3, Core i5 and Core i7. They will be available for preorder starting on May 21 and will start at $799. Shipments commence on June 20.

Update: Here’s the full price list for the different Surface Pro 3 devices and associated peripherals. (Thanks @hoyty) The Core i3 version is the one that starts at $799 with 4 GB of RAM. The highest end Core i7 model with 8 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage is $1,949. The keyboards are still $129.99.