The iPhone might be about to get some fresh competition from Apple’s oldest rival in the tech scene.
Microsoft has reportedly been working on a mysterious new Surface device codenamed Andromeda. The device has supposedly been in development for the last two years and features a dual-display design that can fold to fit into your pocket.
Internal documents obtained by The Verge reveal that the company hopes the disruptive device will pave a new roadmap for the Surface by merging the best parts of the PC and mobile worlds.
Microsoft’s documents describe Andromeda as a “new pocketable Surface device form factor that brings together innovative new hardware and software experiences to create a truly personal and versatile computing experience.”
Andromeda will have a wraparound display that seamlessly covers the gap of the hinge when opened. It will also have stylus input. Renders (see below) created by David Breyers look almost exactly like the current prototype’s, according to The Verge’s sources.
@zacbowden @h0x0d @windowscentral #Surface Andromeda Render according to the latest patents pic.twitter.com/CmbvlfETtU
— David Breyer (@D_Breyer) December 18, 2017
ARM processors are being used in some prototypes, but Microsoft might settle with chips from Intel or Qualcomm. Insiders caution that the device might get pulled. Microsoft created a Surface Mini that was weeks away from launch before the company decided not to launch it.
The pocketable Surface sounds a lot like the folding smartphones in HBO’s Westworld. Microsoft isn’t the only company exploring the idea though. Samsung is supposedly exploring the idea with eyes on a 2019 launch. Apple is spending its R&D money on the idea too. Recent rumors have claimed Apple plans to launch its folding screen iPhone in 2020.