Microsoft Surface
The logo of Dow Jones Industrial Average stock market index listed company Microsoft (MSFT) is seen on a Surface Book in Los Angeles, California, United States, April 22, 2016. Picture taken April 22, 2016. Reuters/Lucy Nicholson

The Microsoft Surface Pro 5 is definitely coming and there is no doubt about it. Its predecessor, the Surface Pro 4, has impressed greatly, and Microsoft will only want to take forward this hybrid segment for more success. The Surface Pro 5 is one of the most highly-anticipated devices this year, subject to intense speculations and rumours. It is too important for Microsoft’s strategy to maintain momentum in the hybrid market. The questions that remain to be answered are when the device will be released, what it will look like and the cost it carries.

According to Digital Trends, slashing of the Surface Pro 4 prices and removing the Surface Pro 3 from the Microsoft Store, are clear indications that the Microsoft Surface Pro 5 is coming. Given the Surface Pro 4’s immense success, it only makes sense for Microsoft to release a more advanced and upgraded Pro 5. There is titanic anticipation about the device and it is expected to be released along with the Windows 10 Creators Update. Many experts believed that the device would be released in October 2016. But that was not the case.

Now the speculation has shifted to an early launch this year. Taiwanese company Pegatron Technology is believed to be manufacturing the device as it also produces the Surface Studio. As the Creators Update is expected to land in April, there are rumours that Microsoft may announce the device during the MWC 2017 that runs from Feb. 27 to March 2. However, Microsoft hasn’t shared any such information. Reports have suggested various specs for the Surface Pro 5. It is expected to come with an Intel Kaby Lake chipset and a 4K display option.

While there are also talks that the Microsoft Surface Pro 5 may come with an ARM processor, that seems unlikely as the chipset is expected to be released at the end of the year. However, an ARM processor will guarantee an LTE variant. A magnetically chargeable stylus may come with the device given that the Surface Pen already magnetically attaches to the side of the Surface Pro 4. The Pro 4 received some criticism for its poor battery performance. Hence, a major upgrade on that front is expected.

The Microsoft Surface Pro 5 name also appears on the LinkedIn profile of a Microsoft employee. Neon is mentioned, which is a codename for a Windows visual design language. It will be employed across multiple platforms. One can view a snapshot of the LinkedIn profile on Wccftech.

RELATED STORIES