Microsoft planning a 7-inch Surface tablet, may release by this October

Microsoft is working on a 7-inch model among updates to the existing line-up of Surface tablets. The news gathered traction when it was noticed that Microsoft had changed the specifications for Windows 8 which allowed for OEM’s to create devices with 1024 x 768 resolution displays.

Microsoft surprised everyone with the launch of its Surface tablets, although both the Surface tablets received good reviews but that did not amount to sales due to the Windows RT model being underpowered and devoid of apps and the heftier Pro model short on storage. Microsoft wanted to target the premium tablet segment with the Surface which is exclusively held by Apple. 

With the new 7-inch model, Microsoft will try to target the share held by Android tablets and the iPad Mini. If the company gets the pricing right with the 7-inch surface running full version of Windows 8 then it might have a chance to sustain itself in the market and would be great for users who want a tablet which is both fun and productive. The tablet is supposed to go under mass production later this year with its unveiling in Q4 2013.

Microsoft is also working on Windows 8.1 (Windows Blue) which might have some Desktop specific enhancements like the return of the Start Button. It will be announced in June at the company’s annual developer conference.

Source: WSJ