While Google and Apple are having problems with China, doors are opening for Microsoft in the world's biggest consumer market. Computerworld reported over the weekend that the company founded by Bill Gates will begin to sell the Surface Pro tablet in China by April 2, Tuesday.

It is the device's first market expansion outside the U.S. and Canada since its roll out on Feb 9. Proof of Microsoft's success in penetrating the Chinese market is an announcement of the availability of the device, considered the best among similar gadgets, is an advertisement in the Weibo social networking service which came out on Thursday.

Since the launch, Microsoft had said that it will bring the Surface Pro to more markets overseas, including Australian, France, Germany, Hong Kong, New Zealand and UK.

Another Chinese Web site, WPDang, said the 64GB Surface Pro would cost $1,061 (6,588 yuan) while the price tag for the 128GH model would be $1,190 (7,388 yuan). In the U.S., these devices retail for $899 and $999, respectively.

Meanwhile, besides the copyright infringement lawsuit filed by a Chinese company against Apple for the use of the Siri technology, the China Consumer's Association (CCA) also called on Apple to sincerely apologise to Chinese consumers and correct problems associated with Apple products such as the iPod, iPad, iPhone and Macbooks.

The CCA specifically sought to have two-year warranty periods similar to standard industry practice for iPad buyers who are given only one-year warranties.

In response, Apple Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook issued an apology which reads, "We are aware that a lack of external communication in this process has led to the speculation that Apple is arrogant, does not care or does not attach importance to consumer feedback. We express our sincere apologies for any concerns or misunderstandings this gives consumers."

Following the apology, Mr Cook said there would be four changes in Apple's warranty policy as follows:

1. Improvement of repair policy for iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S devices

2. Provide concise and clear language on the Apple Web site about its warranty policy

3. Improve supervision and training of Apple authorised service providers

4. Make it easier for customers to get in touch with Apple for their feedback.

Mr Cook said that Apple would now replace all parts for the iPhone 4 or 4S, including back covers.

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