Microsoft's first attempts at tech hardware won't just stop with its Surface tablet. The Redmond, Washington-based tech giant will be introducing a whole lineup of Surface electronics devices, including a smartphone that will be manufactured by Foxconn.
The report comes to us via DigiTimes, which states that according to their sources, Foxconn International Holding received orders to produce a Microsoft-branded Windows 8 smartphone that will ship by mid-2013.
While there is no official name for the handset yet, there's a good chance that Microsoft will be using the Surface brand since the name is tied in with Microsoft's entry into hardware manufacturing.
Amazon also apparently secured a deal with Foxconn for its own-branded smartphone.
"The sources pointed out that Microsoft and Amazon's own-brand handsets will only have a limited shipment volume initially and may become a new business model for the manufacturers in the future," writes Digitimes.
Most people know Foxconn as the infamous manufacturer of Apple products, including the iPhone and iPad. The company has drawn criticism for poor treatment of its employees.
The smartphone won't be Microsoft's only attempt at expanding the Surface brand. Microsoft is also reportedly working on a 7-inch gaming 'Xbox Surface' tablet. The tablet is even expected to launch ahead of Microsoft's next-gen Xbox console.
Given Microsoft's interest in creating SmartGlass, there is no doubt that Microsoft is attempting to make a strong first impression with their touchscreen devices such as tablets and smartphones. Keep an eye out to see if Microsoft can deliver a truly unique Windows experience away from the Nokia partnership it has already fostered.
Does a Microsoft Surface smartphone have you excited? Or would you rather Microsoft left the hardware game to others, and focused more on software?
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