Microsoft Chief Executive Steve Ballmer ended media and consumer speculation on Monday with the unveiling of Surface, the first tablet device from the Redmond-based company and one it hopes can rival the wildly popular iPad in the evolving world of mobile computing.

Less than ten millimeters thick and with an ultra-rigid magnesium case, Surface will feature built-in USB and HDMI ports and an attachable multi-touch keyboard that also acts as a cover. An integrated kickstand is yet another feature that follows the theme of blending the hardware and software of the device for a more seamless transition for users between work and play.

“People do want to create and consume,” Ballmer said at the unveiling event in Los Angeles Monday. “They want to be on their couch, they want to be at their desk and they want to be on the go. Surface fulfills that dream.”

The device will come in two versions, RT and Pro, and will both run a version of Windows 8. A fall debut that would coincide with the release of the newest Windows platform seems likely, though no release date or price were set.

Apple has dominated the market of mobile computing with the iPad since its release in 2010, but will soon face competition from the newest hardware innovation that can operate a broad range of applications.

Microsoft also hopes other features like the cover, which snaps in place with a magnetic hinge, dual antennas for wi-fi reception and front and rear facing cameras will provide appeal while also adding some distinguishing features to draw attention from the iPad. But the functionality of Windows 8 on the new device is what Ballmer hailed as the cornerstone of its success in the marketplace.

“Because of Windows 8, the Surface is a PC, the Surface is a tablet and the Surface is something new,” Ballmer said.