(Updated: emails sent in error) Microsoft delays shipments of preordered Surface tablets to November

By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

If you pre-ordered a Microsoft Surface RT tablet hoping to get it on the October 26 launch day, here' a bit of a buzzkill.

Microsoft just sent out an email notice this evening stating that the 'The release date for the preorder product has changed. The product listed below will now be available on November 2, 2012.' This means you have a better chance of grabbing your Surface tablet at one of Microsoft's pop-up stores on launch day.

Microsoft's website says that preorders can be canceled provided they haven't shipped yet.

"You may cancel your pre-order any time before the product is released by calling the customer support number located on our Sales and Support page. Once your order has been made available for download or shipped, the normal return policies apply."

There were earlier reports that the 32GB Surface tablets sold out within a day and now the Microsoft Canada Surface website says it will ship preorders in one to two weeks. I am waiting to hear back from Microsoft to find out more and see whether the supply issue is Canada only or if it affects sales in other countries.

Update on Saturday, October 20, 2012 at 5:12PM by Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

A Microsoft Spokesperson has gotten back to us and has clarified that the emails we received were in error. People who preordered should be receiving their Surface RT Tablets on the 26th.

"Unfortunately, an incorrect email was sent to several of our international customers who pre-ordered Surface from the Microsoft Online Store in the past week. All customers should expect their devices by the original date given when orders were placed. Microsoft is following up with customers to confirm their original shipping date remains unchanged, and we apologize for any inconvenience caused."