The battle for the numero uno device is heating up in the tech space as Microsoft looks to lock horns with Apple by indulging in some aggressive marketing ploys.
As it prepares for the holiday season, Microsoft is attempting to entice eager shoppers by offering them $650 if they part with their MacBook as part of its "trade up" promotion.
The company kicked off its promotional offer on Thursday, Oct. 27, and cheekily calls it a "trade up," covertly suggesting that you are upgrading to a better device.
"We are announcing a limited-time 'trade up' offer to invite more people to experience Surface. If you have a Mac but want to experience the ultimate laptop with on-screen touch, Surface and Microsoft Store are here for you," revealed Brian Hall, CVP Microsoft Devices Marketing. "Starting today, anyone in the U.S. can trade in their MacBook Pro or MacBook Air at a Microsoft Store or online for up to $650 off a Surface Book or Surface Pro."
The catch you ask? The $650 Microsoft will give consumers needs to be spent toward a new Surface Pro 4 or a Surface Book. The latter's bundle recently received a price cut, so now could be a good time to grab the 2-in-1 device.
By trading in one's Apple device, Microsoft assures consumers they will "get extra value" that can be used toward the purchase of either a Surface Book or a Surface Pro 4.
The company's Surface trade-in program is part of Microsoft's buyback campaign against rival Apple.
For the unfamiliar, the company has a buyback service available both for consumers and businesses alike that incorporates plenty of different devices from Apple.
Eligible Devices And How Much Credit You Get
Here are some of the eligible devices for the trade-in offer, including the estimated credit if the device is in working condition and you trade in the charger as well.
MacBook Pro
MacBook Pro A1297 MC024LL/A 17" - $325 in credit
MacBook Pro Retina A1502 MF840LL/A 13" - $50 in credit
MacBook Pro A1286 MB986LL/A 15" - $260 in credit
MacBook Pro Retina A1502 MF839LL/A 13" - $550 in credit
MacBook Air
MacBook Air A1466 MJVE2LL/A 13.3" - $450 in credit
MacBook Air A1466 MJV2LL/A 13" - $260 in credit
MacBook Air 2014 A1465 MD711LL/B 11" (core i7) - $300 in credit
MacBook Air A1466 MD760LL/B 13" core i5 1.4GHZ (256GB SSD) - $400 in credit
Check out the complete list of eligible devices at this link.
When Does The Promotion Expire?
The Microsoft trade-in offer is valid only till Nov. 10, so if you're keen you'd better get moving! If you have an eligible MacBook Pro or MacBook Air, hurry! However, do remember the trade-in value you will receive is hinged on the condition and specs of your device.
The offer is available online and at Microsoft Stores in the U.S.