Microsoft Surface Phone, the starting point of the Redmond-based software giant's venture into the smartphone world, won't see the light of day until next year.
According to reports, Microsoft has some big plans for the device, specifically for its processor. The company is looking to use Intel's Atom processors but they will no longer be available.
Intel's production of the said chipsets to be used on the Microsoft Surface Phone was completely scrapped after the manufacturer lost 11 percent of its workforce, which equates to 12,000 employees.
This undoubtedly forces Microsoft to look for another processor that will meet their demands and vision for the Microsoft Surface Phone.
The challenge lies in changing the architectural structure of the handset, which was designed specifically for the Atom processor it was supposed to use. Because of this, it will take longer for Microsoft Surface Phone to get here.
There exist speculations that the device will actually make use of Qualcomm's next generation processor, the Snapdragon 830. The catch is, in a few months' time, this chipset will make it to competition as well.
So if Microsoft is determined to make its presence felt in the competitive field of smartphones, it might go looking for something that will make it stand out. It might also have to find a way to use the chipset the way others won't.
Previous reports about the device claim that Microsoft is holding off the development of the Microsoft Surface Phone to wait for Redstone 2, an incremental update on the Windows 10 and Windows 10 Mobile set to be released next year.
When this upgrade is up and running, Microsoft will be able to unlock more features for the Microsoft Surface Phone to take advantage of. Until then, Microsoft, like fans, will have to be patient in waiting.
Redstone 2 will be ready by spring 2017, as per reports, so Microsoft Surface Phone is expected to be out around that time as well.
