Microsoft might have secretly been working on a foldable tablet code-named Andromeda, for over two years now.
According to a leaked Microsoft document acquired by The Verge, it seems that the company might have been working on what likely would be a pocket-sized Surface device. The source reported that Microsoft describes the Andromeda as “a new pocketable Surface device form factor.” While more details are not revealed yet, however, the device has been rumoured to use a notebook app that will connect to OneNote and will have a page interface design that works like an analogue notebook. The Surface may exhibit built-in cellular support and the user would possibly be able to run apps on it like Microsoft Edge and Photos.
Microsoft describes the device as “It’s a new pocketable Surface device form factor that brings together innovative new hardware and software experiences to create a truly personal and versatile computing experience.” If you’re wondering how Microsoft’s Surface device looks like, The Verge pointed to this Tweet.
@zacbowden @h0x0d @windowscentral #Surface Andromeda Render according to the latest patents pic.twitter.com/CmbvlfETtU
— David Breyer (@D_Breyer) December 18, 2017
Earlier in May, I have published a similar type of news when Bloomberg reported that the new Surface tablets will be smaller and cheaper Surface Pros. Microsoft is said to be completely redesigning the devices, with 10-inch screens instead of the 12-inch size currently found on the Surface Pro, rounded corners that more resembles an iPad than the more rectangular Surface design, and USB-C for charging.
It, however, would be worth noting here that the Surface is still in development phases secretly inside Microsoft’s R&D and could be cancelled too, any time as what previously happened with the Surface Mini.
Apple’s new iPad starts at $329 while Microsoft is targeting the $400 price point, according to Bloomberg. The new models will be 20 per cent lighter than the current Surface Pro. However, the reduced weight will cost around four hours fewer of battery life than the Surface Pro.
