Despite earlier rumors of an October release this year, Microsoft is reportedly delaying the launch of its much awaited next-generation two-in-one device due to timeframe issues with Intel's mass production of its 7th generation Kaby Lake processor. If the latest Skylake processor doesn't make it in time, Microsoft Surface Pro 5 may have to wait until early 2017 (maybe around springtime) for its market release.
Renowned microchip maker Intel faced a daunting challenge of meeting the Redmond-based tech giant's squeezed deadline to permit a 2016 release of Surface Pro 5 later this year. Microsoft hopes to add Kaby Lake processor to its forthcoming fifth-generation hybrid flagship. Unable to comply with Microsoft's impossible deadline, the software the giant was forced to adjust the release schedule of its two-in-one-device until the Intel-made processors are ready.
Other tech observers also think that the delay of the Microsoft Surface Pro 5 release may have been caused by the company's decision to coincide it with the arrival of Windows 10 Redstone 2 OS that promises consumers a slew of better features than its Surface Pro 4 predecessor. Redstone 2 is reportedly under development but Microsoft hopes to match the software's completion with the arrival of Intel's Kaby Lake processor, International Business Times reported.
The upcoming Surface Pro 5 will reportedly have the following specs and features (via PC-Tablet): comes in two variants (one with 2K resolution, the other with 4K resolution display screen), 12.3" display, Kaby Lake (boosts processing power while improving battery life), 256 storage offering, 32GB of RAM, 16MP rear camera & 8MP selfie camera, comes with HDMI port over the mini-DisplayPort to offer screen-mirroring in 4K variant, magnetic snap-on keyboards, and new Surface Pen (with rechargeable battery).
Meanwhile, Day Herald reported that Microsoft is offering consumers a price markdown for Surface Pro 4. Originally sold at $1299, interested buyers can now buy the Intel Core i5 and 256GB variant for $1199. A fifty-dollar discount applies to Surface Pro 4 that runs on Intel Core m3 with 128GB storage capacity. Initially priced at $899, the Core m3 variant now sells for only $849.
