Though the Surface Phone is already getting plenty of hype and attention, there has been no official word from Microsoft regarding the speculated handheld. Even though, interested individuals might be waiting an entire year before the device is officially unveiled

Release Date

According to Christian Today, the Microsoft Surface Phone will not launch until the latter part of next year. And while there is an expected reveal event for 2016, it is not likely that the Surface Phone will be part of it.

The publication also goes on to argue that reports first claimed 2016 release date because Microsoft intended it. However, plans are currently being delayed because Intel, which was supposed to act as a partner, has pulled out of the mobile market.

Specifications

For the same reasons, the speculated x86 chipset will no longer be part of the Surface Phone. What are still expected to appear in the device, however, are three variants that depend on RAM and internal storage. The base unit will come equipped with 4GB of RAM, while the other versions have 6GB and 8GB of RAM. These handhelds will have 64GB, 128GB and 256GB of internal storage respectively.

All handhelds are expected to come with a 20 megapixel camera and Carl Zeiss lens. They are also estimated to run on the Windows 10 Redstone operating system straight out of the box.

Features and Price

According to Learn Bonds, the Surface Phone will come compatible with a Surface Pen. Furthermore, it will also run Win32 applications, which might be enough for Android and iOS users to make the switch. This is because this feature will allow users to run standard PC services on their devices.

After all, one of the main reasons why Windows handhelds have not made much of a dent in the smartphone market because of its lack of apps. The 64GB version of the device is expected to price at US$699. Meanwhile, the 128GB and 256GB options are expected to cost between US$800 and US$1099.