14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft is always exploring new product categories to expand the Surface device lineup, and while the highly-anticipated Andromeda is still nowhere to be seen, it’s being reported that the company can use this particular model as a starting point for at least one larger brother.
A laptop-sized Andromeda-based device is said to be in the works, according to various reports, and such a project would technically push Microsoft’s dual-screen strategy to a completely new level.
Andromeda, which itself was said to feature a foldable dual-screen design, was originally supposed to be a pocketable device that supported several form factors thanks to this approach and a new hinge. However, it looks like the project advances slowly, as Microsoft has recently decided to restart work on Andromeda, with the ETA set to 2019.
In the meantime, the laptop-sized model could come to life earlier if it indeed gets the go-ahead.
Possible launch in 2019
A new Windows 10 SKU codenamed Centaurus was recently spotted online, and it’s being speculated that this is a Windows Core OS version that would technically be based on the same Andromeda experience and boast a new form factor.
A report from The Verge and citing Microsoft watcher Brad Sams also indicates that a larger Andromeda-based device is in the works, again with a 2019 expected launch.
There’s a lot we don’t know about this new project being developed by Microsoft, but it’s pretty clear that the company is exploring more options in the dual-screen market and sooner or later, such a device is expected to get the go-ahead.
Meanwhile, most people are still hopeful that Microsoft would give the green light to the original Andromeda device with phone capabilities. Often considered a modern successor to the Surface Phone, Andromeda is likely to be specifically focused on productivity on the go, though for the time being, it’s not yet confirmed whether Microsoft plans to offer phone features or not.