There have been some rumours earlier also that Microsoft had applied for some patents that point to a tablet like design which could be folded and can be used as a smartphone. Is the Redmond, Washington headquartered giant planning to launch a Surface Phone? Recent leakages and information from sites known for such rumours and speculations have come up with detailed schematics and diagrams which do indicate that such a device could be in the offing in the foreseeable future.
The pictures published indicate that the size of this device is more towards a large display smartphone and a much smaller sized tablet. But then the company seems to have come up with a special hinge to connect the two halves which enables a seamless display on both panels and when it is closed, it appears as a compact device.
There is also speculation that the device will run on Windows 10 and this has also been in the air for quite a while that Microsoft has plans to launch a smartphone with its in-house OS. These leaks seem to corroborate these rumours. Besides, there is also speculation that the device will be fitted with the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor. In fact, those in the know appear to refer to the work Microsoft is already engaged in with the chip maker Qualcomm on the ARM Processors that can combine with Windows 10 to make a dramatic impact on the speed and functionality of devices. This partnership is already in the public domain and now it is being predicted that this ARM based processor and Windows 10 can be seen driving this new foldable tablet cum phone or phablet being discussed here.
One has to hasten to mention here that this is not the first time such patents have been filed by Microsoft and it is also not necessary that all patents being filed for, are converted into products for commercial release. However, the design of this device has created some interest in tech circles and it would be really fascinating to see how these rumours finally pan out. The end users of these devices will only benefit if and when such products hit the shelves.