Microsoft shows off the Iconia W3 in latest ad, taking on Apple's iPad Mini

Microsoft appears to either be on a roll or the marketing department knows the weekend is near, thus they're attempting to go on an all-out attack. This latest commercial, published on the WindowsVideos YouTube channel, addresses the small tablet competition - namely, the iPad Mini. Taking the Acer Iconia W3 to the ring, the video shows off some of the cool features a tablet sports when running Windows 8.

Just in case you weren't aware that 8-inch Windows tablets exist, the Acer Iconia W3 (see our hands-on) is a rather recent attempt by the manufacturer. Powering a full version of Windows 8, the Intel Atom processor combined with the loaded software allows you to install all your favourite x86 programs. As the footage boasts, you can enjoy some Halo, after working hard on word processing - it's a real PC.

Not to mention the pricing. $429 for iPad Mini or $299 for the Iconia W3? Both have 32GB storage, but are worlds apart in terms of functionality.

Source: YouTube; thanks, Nishy, for the tip (you're a tipping machine)!

Rich Edmonds was formerly a Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds.