Microsoft Surface Cardinal rumored to be an Apple iMac-sized Surface Hub

Sometime in August we began hearing chatter about a Microsoft Surface All-in-One, whose details seem to converge on the possibility that the new Windows 10 powered desktop PC will come in three screen sizes: 21, 24 and 27 inches, and will feature 4K, and even 5K resolution on at least the 24 and 27 inch version.

In addition, word had it that this new desktop device will feature a “modular” design, that would allow it to swap internal hardware components and customize performance, according to a patent filed in February, which details such functionality.

Finally, rumors have taken a new development, with fresh information from ZDNet’s Mary Jo Foley, who talked about an upcoming Microsoft hardware fall event in which a new Surface desktop device could be introduced as “Surface Cardinal”, although in what appears to be quite a different form than previously expected.

The new device is described by Foley as a “...consumer-focused Surface Hub...”, at least according to information released from Windows Central in early February.

The Microsoft Surface product line has grown in reliability and quality in a few short years, and with last year’s unveiling of Microsoft Surface Book, the company has taken a new direction, more in-line with other major brands like Apple and Samsung, as it is finally establishing itself as a hardware manufacturer.

By that token, a Surface desktop is expected to happen soon, as it will close the loop in the Surface ecosystem, with a new generation device featuring the performance of a desktop PC, and the flexibility of a Surface tablet.

While it’s very possible that Microsoft will unveil Surface Cardinal (most likely a code name), in less than a month, we may have to wait a bit before we see a Surface Pro 5 and a Surface Book 2, pending the availability of Kaby Lake chips for the devices, a similar problem that might be afflicting the launch of the still rumored new Apple MacBook Pro with OLED touch strip.

Also, a complete redesign of the Surface dynamic fulcrum hinge, which connects the Surface Book’s screen and base, could be another reason for delays, as the company is said to be working on a way to allow the next Surface Book to eliminate the gap featured in the original Surface when folded in clamshell mode, making the screen flush to the base.

Ready to shop?

PortableOne has the best deals on Microsoft Surface Book laptops, and more powerful devices for work and downtime.