Microsoft planning an Xbox tablet: reports

Rumors are mounting that Microsoft is developing a seven-inch Xbox Surface device targeted at gamers.

Rumors are mounting that Microsoft is developing a seven-inch Xbox Surface device targeted at gamers.

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The device would use an ARM processor, a customized version of Window's tablet operating system and high-bandwidth RAM designed specifically for gaming tasks, though it is understood that it would still be able to be used as a regular tablet.

The news, which was broken by The Verge on Tuesday, is reportedly based on multiple sources within the company and follows on from a leaked specifications document that came to light in June. It claimed that the device would be able to support up to four wireless game controllers and feature a 1280x720 resolution screen.

Although new to the smartphone and tablet market, Microsoft has a commanding position in the games console market alongside Sony and Nintendo and, as of yet, is the only one of the ‘big three' in this market that doesn't have a mobile gaming device. A dedicated gaming tablet could well be the perfect introduction.

However, for the moment, despite leaks and rumors, Microsoft is remaining silent. Sources at Appleinsider claim that the company has locked down a number of its Xbox-related development buildings to ensure there are no further leaks.