Microsoft's goal to directly compete against Apple's iPad series might have hit a speed bump as one of its features has been receiving a number of complaints.
The complaint is the Touch Cover keyboard and how it has been splitting where it connects to the tablet.
The Surface Forums has been a hub for users to discuss the matter:
Brian_g: just wondering if anyone else has the same issue.
my touch cover, in the middle at the join to the screen is peeling. like the top layer has come loose and is ruffling up. will try to get a pic but just worried its going to get worse as I use it more.
having trouble uploading a picture to the site, will do it later at home.
Whyjoe: Mine, too. Right in the middle on the seam it tore open, and pretty quickly too. I'm gonna exchange it this weekend. On another note, that Microsoft logo on the back is certainly not etched or painted on very well. Mine is already rubbing off. Those two things, combined with the crappy sticker on the charger, make me wonder about the fit and finish. (I really could not believe about the sticker.)
Surfacer: I had the same issue with the blue keyboard as well. I live close to a Microsoft store and they exchanged it for me. The Rep I dealt with said it was the 2nd keyboard that came back (to his knowledge). I believe the seam can loosen easily if it's bent back and you let the Surface rest on your lap (for example, when you're reclining and reading something) - it's best to disconnect the keyboard when the Surface is being used in this scenario.
Click here to see a pic of Whyjoe's issue.
According to Brian_g, a call has been made to Microsoft and a replacement cover will be sent, however, he must also return the original cover in question.
But not all users have experienced the same problem.
Microsoft has acknowledged the problem, stating, "Microsoft makes every effort to ensure our customers receive a high quality product. We are in active contact with our Customer Support operations and are aware of a small number of instances of material separation. Customers can contact Microsoft Customer Support if they have any questions."
The statement was delivered to sites such as CNET and ZDnet.