That the current crop of Surface devices with both PRO and RT versions failed to live up to the expectations of Microsoft is all too evident. The company is undeterred, however, and is already into developing the next gen versions. Towards this, it has already started a hiring spree and is on the lookout for a new designer to join the Surface team.
The ad mentions, “Are you passionate about building cool devices and technologies? The Surface Team focuses on building devices that fully express the Windows vision… We are currently building the next generation and Surface needs you!”
Microsoft is reported to have been able to sell just about 1.5 million of its Surface tablets with the RT version making up the bulk 1 million and the remaining comprises of Surface Pro devices. That is dismal by any means when Apple during the same period has sold about 23 million iPads.
Interestingly, the job ad comes at a time when Microsoft has lowered the minimum display resolution for devices running Windows 8 to 1024 X 768 pixels from the earlier specified 1366 X 768 pixels. This is significant as it is seen as means of promoting development of smaller sized tablets. This in turn will be priced lower and bring in the volumes. Maybe Microsoft is building a new smaller Surface.
Sovan Mandal is the senior tablet and tech corespondent for goodereader.com. He brings a international approach to news that is not just applicable to the North American market, but also Asia, India, Europe and others. Sovy brings his own writing flavor to the website and is interested in Science Fiction, Technology and Writing. Any questions, send an email