The base model of the Microsoft Surface with Windows RT has been sold out, the software giant’s preorder page for the device reveals.

After less than 24 hours of being up for preorder, the 32 GB model without a Black Touch Cover of the Microsoft Surface for Windows RT shows “Order for shipment within three weeks.”

The development comes after Microsoft was criticized for pricing the base model of its new tablet powered by Windows 8 for ARM-based platforms at $499, a price some said was too high.

Meanwhile, the 32GB model with Black Touch Cover and 64GB model with Black Touch Cover, priced at $599 and $699 respectively, are still showing “pre-order now for delivery by 10/26.”

Nonetheless, Microsoft has previously said that the number of Surface tablets for Windows RT which will be up for preorder are limited.

Microsoft did not commit to revealing just how many tablets they offered up for preorder though.

The Microsoft Surface with Windows RT features:

• VaporMg™ casing -  Made with VaporMg, Surface is precision crafted to be tough yet elegant, without excessive bulk. At less than 1.5 pounds, with a watch-like finish that’s incredibly smooth, and durable, Surface is a delight to hold and touch.
• Integrated Kickstand – Integrated Kickstand provides uncompromised support and flexibility. Flip out the Kickstand for hands-free entertainment. Whether you’re watching a movie, or shooting video, Surface stands on its own.
• Touch Cover - The cover you can type on. Touch Cover clicks in to Surface in an instant, and offers a sleek, spill-resistant exterior for working – no matter where you find yourself. When folded back, Touch Cover automatically disables keystrokes for a full touchscreen experience; when closed, it turns off your display. Give Surface your personal touch with a color that matches your style.
• Ports and Connectivity - Bring your entire media collection with you wherever you go. A microSDXC card slot lets you add up to 64 GB of extra storage. Show off everything on the big screen using the HD video out port. Full-size USB port and Bluetooth 4.0 provide clutter-free connections with wireless mice and headsets. Dual 2×2 MIMO antennas provide reliable internet connectivity.
• Windows RT and Microsoft Office Home and Student 2013 RT Preview – Work anywhere, anytime with Windows RT and Office 2013 RT. Keep tabs on news, friends, and entertainment with pre-loaded Microsoft apps. Visit the Windows Store to discover more apps and games.
• Front and rear-facing 720p HD video cameras – Capture life from all sides with LifeCam. The rear camera is angled to shoot straight ahead when the Kickstand is flipped out. The Kickstand also enables hands-free Skype video chat or recording. Custom lens design and an ambient light sensor maximize light intake while providing sharp focus so you’ll never miss a shot.

The Microsoft Surface with Windows RT and the Black Touch Cover have the following technical specifications:

SURFACE WITH WINDOWS RT

• Operating System: Windows RT, Microsoft Office Home and Student 2013 RT Preview
• Exterior: Dimensions: 10.81 x 6.77 x 0.37 in, Weight: Less than 1.5 lbs, Casing: VaporMg, Color: Dark Titanium, Physical buttons: Volume, Power
• Storage: 32 GB / 64 GB
• Display: Screen: 10.6″ ClearType HD Display, Resolution: 1366 x768, Aspect Ratio: 16:9 (widescreen), Touch: 5-point multi-touch
• CPU Chip: NVIDIA T30
• System memory: 2 GB RAM
• Wireless: Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n), Bluetooth 4.0 technology
• Battery: Up to 8 hours mixed activity, 7-15 days idle life
• Cameras: Two 720p HD cameras, front and rear-facing
• AUDIO: Two microphones, Stereo speakers
• Ports: Full-size USB 2.0, microSDXC card reader, Headphone jack, HD video out port, Cover port
• Sensors: Ambient light sensor, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer
• Warranty: 1-year limited hardware warranty
• Apps (included): Mail, Messaging, Word, Power Point, Excel, OneNote, SkyDrive, Internet Explorer 10, Bing, Music, Video, Games, and more.

BLACK TOUCH COVER

DIMENSIONS: 7.4 x 11.0 in • 3 mm thin

WEIGHT: 0.46 lbs

COLOR: Black • Additional colors (White, Cyan, Magenta, Red) sold separately

KEYS: Activation: Pressure-sensing input • Layout: QWERTY

KEYS: Activation: Pressure-sensing input • Layout: QWERTY

WARRANTY: 1-year limited hardware warranty

Microsoft unveiled its Surface tablets in June.

Surface images from Microsoft.

About Solon Harmony Dolor

A passion for technology and journalism makes this upcoming writer very interested in social media and technology news. Fresh from finishing an English and Journalism degree from the University of the Philippines Diliman, he aims to bring interesting news to our readers .