Microsoft Surface Mini has long been rumored but a latest Amazon listing shows two new accessories pegged for a May 18 launch.
Microsoft, the biggest software company that also produces one of the finest tablets, may not be open about the all-new Surface Mini tablet PC, but several rumors have hinted at a possible smaller tablet with its launch date sometime this year. Adding to the rumors are reports of a new leak in the form of an Amazon listing hinting at a May launch.
Vostrostone, a wholesale dealer popularly referred to as VSTN, posted two listings on Amazon's online retail site spotted by TechCrunch . The first is an "ultra-thin Smart Cover case" and the other is a "mini-keyboard portfolio case." Both are exclusively designed to fit the unannounced Surface Mini Black tablet. The mini-keyboard is a Bluetooth enabled case and its design allows users to access all ports and controls.
The Amazon leak has more details like the Smart Cover case and the mini-keyboard case will be in stock May 18, 2014, which strongly suggests the launch of the new Microsoft tablet mid-May. Moreover, VSTN also posted images of the new tablet, which is rumored to feature screen size about 8-inches and a stylus.
Introducing a smaller version of its Surface tablets is a sensible move for the Redmond giant, as the 10.6-inch Surface and Surface 2 tablets have taken the lead in competition with Apple's 9.7-inch iPad. The smaller Surface tablet will take on its competitor's 7.9-inch iPad Mini.
Surprisingly, both accessories by VSTN say they fit the Surface Mini, Black. It may be hinting that Microsoft will launch its new tablet in different color variants, but it is all too early to predict considering Microsoft has "nothing to share," ZDNet reports.
A long-time watcher of Microsoft and related products, Mary J Foley of ZDNet said the tablet shown in the VSTN product listing is likely to be an 8-inch Lenovo Windows tablet, which is already available in the market. Foley indicates the launch of the mini tablet is imminent but not sure when exactly. TechCrunch even notes that the listing could be a possible Photoshop and a miscommunication. But like other rumors built around the Surface Mini tablet, this too can be taken with a pinch of salt unless the maker of the device steps forward with certain news.
