Earlier this week, rumors of a Microsoft Tablet device have reignited over the Internet, putting the Redmond, Washington-based software giant in a head-to-head competition with another, similar device from Apple, also present in the rumor mill. In a recent turn of events, it appears that more details on what is expected to be Microsoft's Tablet-like device have made their way on the Web. Dubbed Courier, said device is apparently in its 'late prototype' stage, meaning that we aren't very far from an official debut.

 

According to a recent post on Gizmodo, the Courier is not a tablet, but a booklet, boasting a dual 7-inch screen design with multitouch and support for writing, flicking and drawing with a stylus. The design also allows for users to interact using their fingers, while a hinge that features an iPhone-like home button connects the two displays. One of the screens informs on the status of the wireless signal and battery life, while on the back of the device there's a camera. Gizmodo also claims that the hinge offers the possibility of doubling as a 'pocket' that holds items that a user may want to move from one page to the other.

 

No word on when the device is slated to enter mass production, but according to the aforementioned article, Microsoft is currently at the stage where it is developing the user experience and is showing design concepts to outside agencies. It is said that the Courier could also make use of an interesting charging technology, through an inductive pad, similar to that of the Palm Touchstone charging dock, designed for the Pre.

 

Although it's not exactly a tablet, like Apple's much-anticipated device, the Courier appears to be one of the most interesting devices that could be released in the near future. If Microsoft manages to launch this at a reasonable price point, then the Redmond, Washington-based company could have a real winner on its hands.