Microsoft could launch a larger Surface device at its upcoming event on May 20th. While a smaller Surface is all but confirmed, reports from an analyst bring evidence that a 12-inch device aimed at business users could be unveiled.
According to CNET, IHS Technology analyst Rhoda Alexander stated:
There are strong indications that there is a 12-inch product coming down the pipeline. Limited US launch is feasible.
While this approach would make sense considering competing rivals have unleashed similar sized productivity tablets earlier in the year, it will be interesting to see how this new tablet will be branded. Currently, Microsoft has two lines of tablets, the Surface and Surface Pro. The former is aimed at tablet users and includes added values like Office. The Surface Pro runs a full version of Windows and is essentially a computer in a smaller and more portable package.
This 12-inch device could possibly be the rumored Surface Pro 3. If so it would align well with speculation that the new device will utilize Intel Haswell processors. With less than a week to go before the Surface event, it looks like Microsoft is set to unveil some interesting tablets.
Source: CNET