Microsoft Surface Neo and Windows 10X launch postponed beyond 2020
What's the story
If you were planning to buy a dual-screen Windows 10X-powered device, you might have to wait until next year.
According to ZDNet, Microsoft is unlikely to launch any Windows 10X devices in 2020 including its own device called Surface Neo that was showcased late last year.
The postponement, yet to be officially announced, is understandably due to the crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Key details
The decision has been communicated internally, claims the report
Citing a source privy to the matter, ZDNet reports that Chief Product Officer Panos Panay has informed some of his team-members "that Microsoft wouldn't be delivering its own Surface Neo dual-screen 10X devices this calendar year."
Moreover, the company will also defer the launch of Window 10X software beyond 2020, which means even third-party dual-screen Windows devices won't ship this year.
Information
Microsoft planning to get Windows 10X on single-screen devices first
The report notes that Microsoft has reset its priorities and is now planning to get Windows 10X on single-screen devices first. These devices include regular laptops as well as hybrid devices (laptop-cum-tablet).
Dual-screen platform
Meanwhile, here's recalling Windows 10X platform
To recall, Windows 10X is an optimized version of Windows 10, tailor-made for the dual-screen form-factor and the foldable devices.
The OS utilizes the extra real-estate of the screen to let you use two apps simultaneously or one app across both the screens. It also understands the position of the device (tablet, reader, laptop) and based on that, it re-positions the apps for you.
Hardware
Windows 10X was expected to debut on Surface Neo
Windows 10X was expected to debut on Microsoft's own dual-screen device, the Surface Neo, later this year. The company gave us an early look at the product last October, revealing its design and features.
The Surface Neo headlines a slim metal-glass body with two 9-inch screens co-joined by a 360-degree hinge that allows the device to be used in multiple forms.