The company is planning to release the new tablet in October

Aug 22, 2013 05:34 GMT  ·  By

It’s no secret that Microsoft is currently working on the second-generation Surface tablet, but a new report is now claiming that the Softies are planning to release the device in October.

This pretty much means that Microsoft might launch the revamped Surface together with Windows 8.1, as the first Windows 8 update is also scheduled to see daylight on October 18.

Digitimes writes that the Redmond-based tech giant has already started clearing first-generation Surface inventory, in an attempt to make room for the upcoming device that’s expected to include new form factors.

Microsoft is reportedly planning to launch an 8-inch unit as well, in an attempt to compete with the iPad mini and Nexus 7. If reports are true, the smaller Surface will be priced at around $250 (€210) and will feature an 8-inch touchscreen display designed to make the most of Windows 8.1.

Word is that Microsoft is more cautious now after the first-generation Surface tablet failed to impress, so the company has placed orders for only 300,000 tablets to Pegatron Technology. The software maker is planning to increase orders in case demand for the second Surface model grows.

Microsoft has recently announced a $900 million (€780 million) write-down for the Surface product family in order to adjust inventories due to unsold tablets around the world.

The company had pretty high expectations from its first tablet in history, with CEO Steve Ballmer and Surface boss Panos Panay praising the device with every single occasion.

At the same time, the Softies have invested a fortune to make the device a successful product, bringing the Surface in several popular TV series in the United States, including Suburgatory and Grey’s Anatomy.

Microsoft is yet to say something official about the second-generation Surface, so take this report with a pinch of salt. More details, however, are expected to be provided anytime soon, as we get closer to the rumored launch date.