Many expected Microsoft to unveil a new Surface Mini tablet alongside the Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2 at its event earlier this week. Needless to say at this point, it did not materialize. Two separate reports now suggest that such a device is still in the works but may not see the light of day until 2014.
According to ZDNet‘s Mary Jo Foley, Microsoft will launch the Surface Mini with an updated version of Windows 8.1. Codenamed “Spring 2014 GDR”, this version of Windows is not expected until early 2014. Microsoft is also hoping to align its launch with that of Windows Phone “Blue,” the first “major” update for Windows Phone 8 since its release in late 2012.
The Spring 2014 GDR for Windows 8.1 will align with Windows Phone “Blue,” which may or may not be called Windows Phone 8.1 when it ships, according to my sources. Whatever it’s called, it will be the first “major” update for Windows Phone since Microsoft rolled out Windows Phone 8 in fall 2012.
The launch of all three could also be part of Microsoft’s strategy to bring Windows RT closer to Windows Phone as the lines between tablets and smartphones blur with the growing popularity of phablets.
As for the Surface Mini itself, a separate report suggests that it will come with a 7.5-inch display with a 4:3 aspect ratio and a resolution of 1,400 by 1,050 pixels. It could also come with optional 3G/4G connectivity in what could be a first for Windows tablets. It will also use an ARM-based processor and Windows RT.
Anyone interested in a smaller Surface RT tablet? Let us know below.