14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft's Surface Mini tablet is expected to launch later this month, but the software giant remains completely tight-lipped on the project, even though people familiar with the matter already revealed some important details about this device.
Based on the existing rumors, the mockups you're seeing here are envisioning a Surface Mini tablet that looks absolutely outstanding, while also keeping the design cues belonging to the first and second-generation Surface that's already on the market.
As Neowin reports, this concept is pointing towards two different designs, namely 4:3 and 16:9, both of which feature traditional Surface element, such as a camera, similar color setup, and a digital pen to easily take notes and create drawings.
According to some previous reports, the Surface Mini could come without a kickstand, but instead be sold with a new cover that would also play this role. The kickstand cover could feature two different pre-defined positions that would allow buyers to use the tablet in either portrait or landscape mode, depending on their choice.
As you can see for yourselves in these photos, the Surface Mini could be marketed as a note-taking device, so the digital pen input would clearly come in handy, especially in such a form factor.
The Surface Mini could come with an 8-inch screen, according to some people close to the development plans, and a Qualcomm processor specifically optimized for reduced battery usage and better performance. The Surface Mini could thus be the first step that breaks apart Microsoft and Nvidia, as the two companies have already worked together on chips for the first and second-generation Surface RT.
As far as pricing is concerned, rumor has it that Microsoft is looking to make the new device very affordable in order to compete with the iPad mini and Nexus 7. As a result, a price tag of $250 (180 euros) is very likely, even though nothing is confirmed so far. Of course, expect the company to launch several promos that would discount the device soon after launch.
At this point, it's not yet clear whether the cover that would also play the role of a kickstand would be offered with the device or sold separately, but we're pretty sure that the digital pen would come by default with every tablet, especially if the company decides to sell it as a note-taking gadget.
Expect more details to be revealed soon, as we get closer to the May 20 New York event.
