14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft is reportedly working on a new product that would expand its lineup of headphones to a second category.
In addition to the Surface Headphones, which were officially launched last year, the software giant is now working on its very own earbuds that would technically be positioned as an alternative to Apple’s AirPods and other similar devices already on the market.
Thurrott notes that the in-ear device is currently called Morrison, which could be a reference to Jim Morrison, the lead singer of the Doors. Previously, the Surface Headphones were codenamed Joplin, a hint at American composer Janis Joplin.
While the new product could very well launch as Surface Buds, a final name hasn’t yet been chosen, and Microsoft could change it at any moment should it have a different idea.
When it comes to features, it’s not yet clear how Microsoft wants its earbuds to differentiate from the other similar products on the market.
Cortana integration
However, there’s a high chance the feature lineup of the Surface Headphones would be borrowed too, so expect Cortana integration and noise cancellation to be offered too. As per the cited source, Microsoft might also be working on “a way to improve interactions between a phone and the earbuds to make reading content easier on the phone.”
Specifics on this aren’t available right now, but more details should make the headlines as we approach the release date and the work on the project advances.
As for the ETA when the Surface Buds could go live, nothing is certain at this point, especially because the in-ear headphones are still in their early days. Nevertheless, the launch could take place later this year, but as with everything in the works, it’s better not to hold your breath for the earbuds, as anything can change overnight at any moment.