Microsoft is working on a foldable, pocket-sized Surface device that will offer dual touchscreens and the ability to make voice calls.
The so-called Andromeda project has been leaked multiple times in recent months, but now The Verge has uncovered documents not only confirming its existence, but neatly explaining what we can expect from the device.
According to the internal note, the “new and disruptive” device will truly blur the lines between a PC and a mobile device.
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“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,” the company writes in the document..
The design of the device, which will be accompanied by Surface Pen-like stylus, apparently matches up to the recent 3D concept images we’ve seen in recent months, which you can see below.
@zacbowden @h0x0d @windowscentral #Surface Andromeda Render according to the latest patents pic.twitter.com/CmbvlfETtU
— David Breyer (@D_Breyer) December 18, 2017
Those images showed a book-like hinge with the dual screens filing out into a full tablet. According to the report, Microsoft is experimenting with ARM chips, but the device could still ship on Qualcomm or Intel platforms.
The internal documents say the device is slated for 2018, with some of Microsoft’s partner OEM’s planning to follow suit with interpretations, much like they have with the mixed reality headsets now on the market.
There’s no word yet on the potential for killer apps Microsoft hopes to market this with, but its likely the portability will be the main selling point. It’s also likely the device would also dock with a Surface Keyboard in order to create a more traditional notebook-style device. Just don’t call it a Surface Phone, OK?
It’s possible Microsoft could choose to launch the device alongside the next major Windows 10 Update, likely to be called the Fall Creators Update 2018, this September. However, that’s speculation on our part.
Would a pocket-friendly Surface device scratch your itch for connectivity and portability on the go? Drop us a line @TrustedReviews on Twitter.
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
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We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
