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Microsoft has been working on a new mysterious surface device for at least two years. The code name Andromeda, the device has appeared in patents, reports, and in the operating system references many times and will include a dual-display design. According to a Microsoft internal document obtained by The Verge it will also be a handheld device.
Microsoft describes its Andromeda project as something that the company has quietly incubated internally, which will create a "new and disruptive category of devices" to influence Surface's overall roadmap and blur the world. lines between what is considered PC and mobile. "It's a new handheld form factor that brings together innovative hardware and software experiences to create a truly personal and versatile computing experience," Microsoft explains in-house. Thurrott initially reported some Microsoft Andromeda plans earlier this month. Microsoft originally introduced Surface RT and Surface Pro six years ago as devices that were designed to create a new category to challenge the differences between a tablet and a laptop. The Surface Pro has managed to disrupt laptops and tablets, and everyone – including Apple to some extent – is copying the Surface Approach now. Microsoft's Andromeda is the next major challenge to challenge what we consider a phone and a PC.
The Andromeda device is still developed in secret in Microsoft, with a wraparound display that fills the void of the hinge when it is fully open. We understand the current engineering samples of the pocket surface look identical to the 3D concept created by David Breyer.
Microsoft has also experimented with a pen input for Andromeda more like a book and a pen can be used to capture digital ink. Prototype devices include styli and notepad applications to capture notes. Microsoft is also experimenting with ARM processors inside Andromeda prototypes, but it is unclear whether the company will use Intel or Qualcomm for an end device.
Sources close to Microsoft's work at Andromeda warn that the company could unplug at any time. Microsoft has already developed a "Surface Mini" device similar to a notebook, which was to be removed in a few weeks. Panos Panay, surface supervisor, confirmed the existence of a Mini Surface, describing the canceled device as "awesome" and "as a Moleskin".
Microsoft considers Andromeda as a unique answer to its failures with Windows Phone devices. "It will blur the lines between mobile and fixed computing," reads an internal document describing the device. Microsoft is tentatively planning to release Andromeda in 2018, with similar devices from some of Microsoft's top OEMs to "follow suit."
Intel is also working on similar dual-screen devices that will take advantage of Microsoft software with Andromeda. Intel has created prototypes with dual displays and electronic paper displays (EPDs), and shares reference designs with OEM partners. Asus and Lenovo are creating devices inspired by Intel's concepts, and at least one device will be available later this year.
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