Microsoft Preparing Own Windows 8 Tablet?

Speculation is mounting that Microsoft could announce its own-branded Windows 8 tablet on Monday, after it scheduled an event in Los Angeles, promising “a major announcement.”

Such a move would mark a change in strategy for the tech giant, which has previously indicated that it would enter the tablet market through its hardware partners, rather than release its own device.

Windows 8 is being pitched as the first version of the operating system that works equally well on both desktops and tablets, with the first wave of devices expected later this year, but AllThingsD reports that Microsoft is convinced that it needs its own tablet to compete against Apple’s market leading iPad.

Different approach

A number of manufacturers, including Lenovo, and Nokia, have announced plans for Windows 8 tablets already, but by releasing its own tablet, it could control both the hardware and software, following the example of Windows Phone which has seen Microsoft take a much more hands-on approach.

Windows 8 supports the ARM-based processors used in many smartphones and tablets, but it remains unclear whether these or a traditional PC processor will be used. Forty Intel machines and five ARM devices are reportedly being readied for launch, and it is hoped that the operating system will give Microsoft a potential inroad into the tablet market amidst slumping PC sales.

However HTC will not be a part of it, after Microsoft kicked it out of the Windows 8 launch following disappointing sales figures.

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