Microsoft has announced the Surface 3, a new model in its range of tablets and the previously-rumoured successor to the Surface 2, according to Digital Spy.

The slate will co-exist alongside the high-end Surface Pro 3 and ditch Windows RT in favour of full-fat Windows 8.1.

It will receive the Windows 10 upgrade when the software launches later this year.

The device is powered by the fan-less Intel Atom (Cherry Trail) processor and either 2GB or 4GB RAM. The processor has been optimised for battery life, and Microsoft claims that users can expect 10 hours of video playback.

The internals will be housed inside the familiar magnesium alloy body, with a 10.8-inch screen, and the whole device will weight 622g.

As with most new Microsoft devices, it will also come with a one-year subscription to Office 365, offering users access to the likes of Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

The tablet will be compatible with a new keyboard case and Microsoft's Surface Pen, although these will be optional accessories.

The Microsoft Surface will be available to order from March 31.

A 4G version will also be available later in the year.