14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft Surface Andromeda, a device that’s still uncertain according to the latest rumors, could launch with support for a dock a la Lumia 950 XL and HP Elite X3.
In other words, Andromeda may support a docking mode that would power advanced functionality like connectivity to a bigger screen for working on a PC-like experience or for presentation purposes.
Discovered by @h0x0d, the code reference in a recently-discovered language pack indicates that Andromeda may come with two different modes called Presenter and Productivity, both of which would be powered by a stand-alone dock.
Andromeda, which would sport a dual-screen design with multi-form factor support, was originally expected to launch this year. Recent information, however, suggested that the project has been pushed back to 2019, with Microsoft even considering giving up on it entirely if it doesn’t advance as planned.
Windows 10 Mobile docking mode
But seeing Microsoft borrowing support from docks from Windows 10 Mobile isn’t surprising, especially because this was one of the most appreciated features on the Lumia 950 XL flagship series.
Launched in October 2015, Lumia 950 XL Continuum was a feature that allows Windows 10 Mobile users to convert their smartphones to PCs with the help of an external screen. Technically, the dock powered a Windows 10-based PC interface of Windows 10 Mobile, with all apps running on the phone and upscaled to fit the larger screen.
Similar features have been adopted by other mobile phone makers as well in the meantime, including Samsung. But with Microsoft’s focus on productivity, offering a docking mode on Andromeda certainly makes sense, especially because the company already has the know-how to build it.
For the time being, however, don’t forget that all of these are just rumors and Andromeda is still work in progress. In other words, despite growing excitement for Andromeda, it’s better to take all these reports with a healthy dose of skepticism.