14 DAY TRIAL // Rumor has it that Microsoft is planning to use the BUILD developer conference next month to introduce two new important products, namely the Windows Blue upgrade and the next-generation Surface tablet.
If reports on the matter are true, the BUILD conference will bring us the first public beta of Windows Blue, a major upgrade for Windows 8 that might hit the market as Windows 8.1.
Several builds have already leaked online, showing that Microsoft is indeed working on an important refresh for its operating system, but no specifics have been provided.
Furthermore, sources familiar with the matter hinted that the tech giant is planning to use the same Blue project to bring back the traditional Start button, an old yet extremely popular feature whose removal was regarded as one of the most important Windows 8 setbacks.
As compared to previous Windows iterations, the Windows Blue Start button would only allow users to launch the Start Screen and might not open a Start Menu.
As for the second-generation Surface tablet, word is that Microsoft has already completed the development process, so the company might unveil a prototype next month.
This time, the Softies would try to offer smaller devices, with displays between 7 and 9 inches, as the company is willing to compete with the Apple iPad and Nexus 7.
There are no official details available for the time being, but it appears that Microsoft is planning to work with the same partners as for the first generation.
As far as pricing goes, previous reports indicated that Microsoft wants to keep the new Surface pretty affordable, with a $249 (€190) price tag likely to be announced for the entry-level model.
Keep in mind that all we have here are rumors and Microsoft is highly unlikely to say something about its future project until the BUILD developer conference next month. Either way, consider yourself prepared for a new major Microsoft release.