The Microsoft Surface RT, released in 2012, was a pioneering device that brought the Windows operating system to a tablet format. Although it was initially met with excitement, the device’s limitations and the rise of more powerful alternatives led to its decline in popularity. However, if you still have a Surface RT lying around, don’t be too quick to discard it. With a little creativity, you can breathe new life into your device and explore new uses that go beyond its original purpose.
Understanding the Limitations of Your Surface RT
Before we dive into the various uses for your Surface RT, it’s essential to understand its limitations. The device runs on Windows RT, a stripped-down version of the Windows operating system designed for ARM-based processors. This means that your Surface RT can only run apps from the Windows Store, and you won’t be able to install traditional desktop applications.
Additionally, the Surface RT’s hardware is not as powerful as modern devices, which can limit its performance and capabilities. However, with the right mindset and a bit of creativity, you can still find ways to make the most of your device.
Using Your Surface RT as a Media Consumption Device
One of the most obvious uses for your Surface RT is as a media consumption device. With its 10.6-inch touchscreen display and built-in speakers, it’s perfect for watching movies, TV shows, and streaming music.
Streaming Services
You can install various streaming apps from the Windows Store, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. These apps allow you to access a vast library of content, including movies, TV shows, and original series.
Music and Podcasts
You can also use your Surface RT to stream music and podcasts. Apps like Spotify, Pandora, and TuneIn Radio offer a wide range of music and talk shows that you can listen to on the go.
E-Books and Digital Comics
If you’re an avid reader, you can use your Surface RT to read e-books and digital comics. Apps like Kindle, Nook, and Comixology offer a vast library of titles that you can access on your device.
Using Your Surface RT as a Productivity Tool
Although the Surface RT is not as powerful as modern devices, it can still be used as a productivity tool for basic tasks.
Microsoft Office
The Surface RT comes with Microsoft Office pre-installed, which includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote. These apps allow you to create and edit documents, spreadsheets, and presentations on the go.
Email and Calendar
You can also use your Surface RT to check your email and calendar. The device comes with a built-in email client and calendar app that syncs with your Microsoft account.
Note-Taking and Organization
If you’re a student or a professional, you can use your Surface RT to take notes and organize your tasks. Apps like OneNote and Evernote allow you to create digital notebooks and to-do lists that you can access on your device.
Using Your Surface RT as a Gaming Device
Although the Surface RT is not a gaming powerhouse, it can still be used to play casual games.
Windows Store Games
You can find a variety of games on the Windows Store, including puzzle games, strategy games, and arcade games. Some popular titles include Angry Birds, Cut the Rope, and Fruit Ninja.
Emulators and Retro Games
If you’re feeling nostalgic, you can use your Surface RT to play retro games using emulators. There are several emulators available on the Windows Store that allow you to play classic games from consoles like the NES, SNES, and Game Boy.
Using Your Surface RT as a Digital Picture Frame
If you’re not using your Surface RT as a primary device, you can repurpose it as a digital picture frame.
Setting Up Your Device
To set up your Surface RT as a digital picture frame, you’ll need to create a slideshow of your favorite photos. You can use the built-in Photos app to create a slideshow and set it to play automatically.
Adding Music and Transitions
To make your slideshow more engaging, you can add music and transitions. You can use the built-in Music app to add a soundtrack to your slideshow, and you can use the Photos app to add transitions between photos.
Using Your Surface RT as a Home Automation Hub
If you’re into home automation, you can use your Surface RT as a hub to control your smart devices.
Smart Home Apps
There are several smart home apps available on the Windows Store that allow you to control your smart devices remotely. Some popular apps include SmartThings, Wink, and Insteon.
IFTTT Recipes
You can also use IFTTT (If This Then That) recipes to automate your smart devices. IFTTT is a service that allows you to create custom recipes based on specific triggers and actions.
Conclusion
Although the Surface RT may not be the most powerful device on the market, it can still be used in a variety of ways. From media consumption to productivity and gaming, there are many uses for your Surface RT that can breathe new life into your device. So, don’t be too quick to discard your Surface RT – explore its capabilities and find new ways to use it.
| Use Case | Description |
|---|---|
| Media Consumption | Watch movies, TV shows, and stream music on your Surface RT. |
| Productivity | Use Microsoft Office, email, and calendar apps to stay productive on the go. |
| Gaming | Play casual games on the Windows Store or use emulators to play retro games. |
| Digital Picture Frame | Set up your Surface RT as a digital picture frame to display your favorite photos. |
| Home Automation Hub | Use your Surface RT to control your smart devices remotely using smart home apps and IFTTT recipes. |
By exploring these use cases, you can find new ways to use your Surface RT and make the most of your device.
What is a Surface RT and why should I revive it?
The Surface RT is a tablet computer developed by Microsoft, released in 2012. It was designed to run the Windows RT operating system, which is a variant of Windows 8. Although the device is no longer supported by Microsoft, it still has a lot to offer. Reviving your Surface RT can be a great way to breathe new life into an old device and explore new uses for it.
By reviving your Surface RT, you can unlock its full potential and discover new ways to use it. Whether you want to use it as an e-reader, a media player, or a device for basic productivity tasks, there are many creative ways to repurpose your Surface RT. With a little bit of creativity and experimentation, you can turn your old device into a valuable tool that still has a lot to offer.
What are some new uses for my Surface RT?
There are many new uses for your Surface RT, depending on your needs and interests. For example, you can use it as an e-reader, a media player, or a device for basic productivity tasks. You can also use it to browse the internet, check your email, or stream music and videos. Additionally, you can install third-party apps to expand its functionality and explore new features.
Another great use for your Surface RT is as a dedicated device for a specific task or activity. For example, you can use it as a digital picture frame, a recipe book, or a device for playing games. You can also use it to control your smart home devices, monitor your security cameras, or track your fitness goals. With a little bit of creativity, the possibilities are endless.
Can I still install apps on my Surface RT?
Although the Windows Store is no longer available for Windows RT devices, you can still install third-party apps on your Surface RT. There are many alternative app stores and websites that offer a wide range of apps that are compatible with Windows RT. You can also sideload apps from other sources, such as the internet or other devices.
However, it’s worth noting that the selection of apps available for Windows RT is limited compared to other operating systems. Additionally, some apps may not be optimized for the Surface RT’s hardware or screen resolution. Nevertheless, you can still find many useful and functional apps that can enhance your device’s capabilities and provide new features.
How can I improve the performance of my Surface RT?
There are several ways to improve the performance of your Surface RT. One of the most effective ways is to free up storage space by deleting unnecessary files and apps. You can also disable any unnecessary features or services that may be running in the background and consuming system resources. Additionally, you can update your device’s software to the latest version, which may include performance enhancements and bug fixes.
Another way to improve performance is to use a third-party cleaning app to remove temporary files, system logs, and other data that may be slowing down your device. You can also use a registry cleaner to optimize your device’s registry and improve its overall performance. However, be careful when using these types of apps, as they can potentially cause system instability or data loss if not used properly.
Can I use my Surface RT as a desktop replacement?
While the Surface RT can be used for basic productivity tasks, it’s not recommended as a desktop replacement. The device’s hardware and software limitations make it less suitable for demanding tasks such as video editing, software development, or gaming. Additionally, the device’s keyboard and touchpad may not be as comfortable or responsive as those on a traditional desktop computer.
However, if you only need to perform basic tasks such as browsing the internet, checking email, or working on documents, the Surface RT can be a suitable option. You can also use it in conjunction with a desktop computer or laptop to extend your productivity and provide a secondary screen for reference or multitasking.
Is it worth reviving my Surface RT?
Whether or not it’s worth reviving your Surface RT depends on your specific needs and goals. If you’re looking for a device to perform basic tasks or provide a secondary screen, the Surface RT can be a great option. Additionally, if you’re interested in exploring new uses for your device or experimenting with different apps and features, reviving your Surface RT can be a fun and rewarding experience.
However, if you’re looking for a device to perform demanding tasks or provide a primary computing experience, you may want to consider other options. The Surface RT’s hardware and software limitations make it less suitable for these types of tasks, and you may find that it’s not worth the time and effort to revive it.
What are the risks of reviving my Surface RT?
There are several risks to consider when reviving your Surface RT. One of the main risks is data loss or corruption, which can occur if you’re not careful when installing new apps or updating your device’s software. Additionally, you may encounter system instability or crashes if you’re not careful when experimenting with different features or apps.
Another risk is security vulnerabilities, which can be exploited by hackers or malware if you’re not careful. Since the Surface RT is no longer supported by Microsoft, you may not receive security updates or patches, which can leave your device vulnerable to attacks. However, by being careful and taking the necessary precautions, you can minimize these risks and enjoy a safe and rewarding experience with your revived Surface RT.