Microsoft has reportedly completed design work on the sequel to its Surface Pro tablet, which it plans to launch before the end of the year.
According to The Verge, the 10.1-inch tablet will maintain much the same look and feel, but will bring an adjustable kickstand that will allow the device to be used in two positions. The first will be the current laptop mode, plus one that makes the device easier to use on uneven surfaces.
The device will also boast significantly improved battery power that’ll add a couple of hours usage to the device when on the go.
The highly-rated, full-fat Windows 8 hybrid device was launched earlier this year and stood out as one of the finer examples of how the new touch-friendly OS could be implemented by manufacturers for use as a laptop and tablet.
Unfortunately for Microsoft, the positive reaction has not been replicated in the commercial arena with a high price point and general skepticism resulting in disappointing sales. Microsoft has implicated price cuts in the United States in order to shift more units ahead of the Surface Pro 2 launch.
The company is also thought to be working on a new version of the Surface RT slate, despite losing a reported $900 million on the first one.
The ARM-based version of the OS has been heavily criticised by users and manufacturers alike, with many urging Redmond to call time on the experiment.
Want to know more about the Surface Pro sequal? Check out the Surface Pro 2 review
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Editorial independence
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.
Professional conduct
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.
