Apple CEO claims Surface RT is "confused and complicated"

Apple CEO Tim Cook is confident that Microsoft's Surface RT tablet will not challenge the dominance of the iPad.

Despite having yet to test the 10.6in Windows RT, Cook claimed that Microsoft tablet tries to do too many things.

"I haven't personally played with the Surface yet, but what we're reading about it is that it's a fairly compromised, confusing product...I suppose you could design a car that flies and floats, but I don't think it would do all of those things very well," he said during a conference call about Apple's Q4 earnings.

"[When people] look at the iPad versus competitive offerings, [they] are going to conclude, they really want an iPad and I think people have done that to-date and I think they will continue to do that."

Microsoft has launched the Windows RT device today, after it was introduced in an enthusiastic keynote by head of department, Panos Panay, in New York last night.

Panay gave a detailed breakdown of the key features of Surface RT.

He explained why Microsoft had chosen the 10.6in screen size, showcased unique features such as the Touch Cover and even carried out a successful drop test on stage.

It remains to be seen how the RT will fair against the iPad, as both devices have the same 399 starting price. Initial reaction to the Microsoft tablet has been positive, with praise for the hardware in particular.

However, Apple does have a two and half year headstart. The firm has sold 100 million iPads to date and offers 275,000 apps specifically designed for use on the tablet. Apple also announced a smaller version of the device in the form of the iPad mini to give users more choice.

Whilst Microsoft has help from OEMs to offer a choice of devices and a strong relationship with developers, it will take time for the Windows Store to catch up.