'Microsoft's Surface Phone' release date, specs, rumors: Phone slated for an early 2017 release?

Microsoft's Surface Phone will allegedly be released in the first half of 2017, and after much secrecy, rumors are finally coming out about the phone's possible specs.

According to a report by Trusted Reviews, the Surface Phone will come in three variants, one with 3 GB RAM and 32 GB storage. Another will come with 6 GB RAM and 128 GB storage, while the last one will come with 8 GB RAM and 500 GB storage.

The reason for this is mainly because the company wants its users to be able to connect the phone to a PC or monitor and basically use it as a desktop PC, which would come in handy for professionals on the go.

In line with this, Microsoft is likely to integrate a Windows 10 Mobile's Continuum feature for the Surface Phone, making it easier for users to tap into its features like a PC. It is also expected to run Win32 apps.

The phone is also expected to use the Snapdragon 830, which will be the latest mobile chip from Qualcomm.

As for the size, the unit is expected to feature a 5.7-inch display with an impressive QHD resolution. It is also expected to be competitive in terms of the camera as it is rumored to come with a 21 megapixel Carl Zeiss Pure View main camera.

Meanwhile, a report from University Herald cited a leaked patent filed by Microsoft which is believed to be for the Surface Phone.

The patent was for a fingerprint scanner which will be embedded on the phone's display underneath the glass cover. This means that the screen will serve a dual purpose as it will also become a security feature of the phone.

Early estimates for the price of the device range from $699 to $1,100. This converts to approximately £499 to £799

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