The company is very likely to launch a smaller tablet this year

Sep 13, 2013 05:47 GMT  ·  By

Microsoft is expected to launch a smaller Surface tablet later this year, with a new report now claiming that an 8-inch device is very likely to arrive by December.

Paul Thurrott of WinSuperSite.com writes that the so-called Surface Mini might feature a Qualcomm processor specifically optimized for longer battery life and improved performance.

It appears that Microsoft is expected to equip the ARM device with Windows RT 8.1, the OS update which was tweaked for smaller screens, including the 8-inch display that might be installed on the new Surface Mini.

The company hasn’t yet commented on a smaller tablet, but outgoing CEO Steve Ballmer has already expressed his intention to expand the Surface product lineup with more units.

Both the Surface RT and the Pro are expected to receive updates this month, as the tech giant has already announced a new event in NYC on September 23.