Acer's latest tablet is taking the term "hybrid" to the next step. The Switch 12, the successor to last year's Switch 10, is being marketed as five devices in one despite the fact that it's officially listed as a 2-in-1.

A press release on the matter indicates the Switch 12 will ship with a 12.5-inch IPS display operating at a resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 with an anti-fingerprint coating and Gorilla Glass on top. Acer points out that the display uses Zero Air Gap direct bonding technology so it should offer good viewing angles and solid performance in direct sunlight.

It's powered by Intel's new Core M processor alongside 4GB of RAM and your choice of 30GB or 120GB of speedy flash storage. It includes dual front-facing speakers while connectivity iconsists of micro USB 3.0 and micro HDMI ports and 2x2 MIMO wireless technology. Battery life is rated at up to eight hours of video playback and it runs Windows 8.1.

The Switch 12 comes equipped with a kickstand and a magnetic, latch-less detachable keyboard. Its five modes of operation according to Acer are notebook, pad, display, tent and desktop. 

Acer plans to launch the Switch 12 in Europe, the Middle East and Africa during the fourth quarter with prices starting at €649 ($813). Expect the slate to show up in Canada and the US early next year, likely at the same price point.