Microsoft's new Surface tablet computer will hurt the industry, tech giant Acer said.

The Surface range of tablets, running Windows 8, was first announced in June, drawing attention thanks to its beautiful design.

"On one hand Microsoft is our partner, but on the other, Microsoft's move makes them compete not only with us but all PC makers," Acer spokesperson Henry Wang was quoted as saying by Bloomberg.

"We think that Microsoft's launch of its own-brand products is negative for the whole PC industry."

The Windows 8 RT version of Surface, not capable of running legacy programs, will be available in October. The Windows 8 Pro version will be available later, according to Microsoft.

The Surface tablet is just the latest device to enter the crowded market dominated by Apple's iPad, with Amazon's Kindle Fire and the Nexus 7 all vying for sales.