Microsoft Surface Phone apps and developer support a must; Entire ecosystem required before launch

Microsoft Surface devices have been a hit but it is not enough for the Surface Phone to be a hit. This is because the smartphone market is a different ball game altogether. Simply packing the device with high-end hardware is not enough for the phone to be a success. This is the reason Microsoft has stated that the Surface Phone will be released only when it is ready. The Surface Phone won’t be released just to appease fans thirsty for more specs and features. 2017 will be a big year for Microsoft as it is expected to release the Surface Pro 5 and Surface Book 2.

According to Windows Central, the Microsoft Surface Phone running full Windows on ARM, will be seen more as an ultramobile PC though it requires to be a smartphone too. However, one thing’s for sure, Microsoft does not want the Surface Phone to be competing with Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy as a smartphone. Surface Phone will be different to say the least. Microsoft believes that the game-changing capabilities of the Surface Phone are heavily dependent on support from developers.

The Microsoft Surface Phone first needs an entire ecosystem to be in place and support for it before being released. Developers need to be drawn into Microsoft’s ecosystem. Moreover, Microsoft knows that cellular PCs will pave the way for success of the Surface Phone. Microsoft's partners will bring ARM-based cellular PCs to consumers later this year. Users will be able to purchase cellular data via Windows Store to keep Windows PCs always connected.

The Microsoft Surface Phone 2017 could be capable of emulating x86 apps on the ARM architecture in Continuum mode. Numerous reports have suggested an 8GB RAM, 512GB internal storage, 21MP rear camera, 5.7-inch AMOLED screen and USB Type-C port in the device. A smaller version of Surface Pen may also be included with the device.