Microsoft decided to scrap its dual-screen smartphone idea after two failed attempts. Now the company is looking into the foldable segment, offering consumers its vision of a productivity-focused Android smartphone with a foldable display. However, a Surface smartphone with a bendable screen isn’t all that Microsoft has in store. The company is looking to expand its smartphone lineup with more devices that feature traditional form factors.
Oh Reports A claim published by Windows Central (citing sources within the company) that Microsoft has already prototyped several Surface Slab-like smartphones. The software giant could target those in the mainstream segment, leaving its foldable surface for deep-pocketed enthusiasts. Jonas Daehnert’s concept from late 2020 provides a glimpse of what a traditional Surface Phone might look like.
In addition to releasing a “regular” Surface smartphone with Android on the inside, Microsoft wants to strengthen the relationship between Windows and Google’s mobile OS. The company is working on the “Perfect Together” project to create a better “ecosystem” between the two operating systems and provide an iPhone-like experience with its multiple integrations into macOS. It’s interesting to hear stories like this because the PhoneLink app only works best with Samsung devices, not even Microsoft’s Surface Duo.
Microsoft has tried to corner the smartphone market several times with varying degrees of success (RIP the beloved Windows Phone), and it knows how difficult it is to compete with well-established players. For that reason, Microsoft is developing its “Perfect Together” project to differentiate Surface smartphones from competitors.
While these reports likely depress the Surface Duo’s small fanbase, it’s great to see that Microsoft isn’t giving up on making smartphones and exploring alternative ideas.
What do you think about the idea of Microsoft making a regular Android smartphone under the Surface brand? Let us know in the comments.
