Microsoft’s 2016 Plan Expected at Oct. 26 Event: New Hardware May Include Surface AIO, Windows 10 Update, Google Home [VIDEO]
ByMicrosoft could be hinting a significant announcement on its latest hardware in the company's upcoming Oct. 26 event. Some of the expected features may pertain to Surface All-in-One, Home Hub Plus Surface 4, and the Windows 10 updates.
According to Windows Central, Microsoft has been testing its next major update, tagged as "Redstone 2," for Windows 10, issuing insiders a number of preview builds.
This next update is rumored to launch in the Spring of 2017. The said update is speculated to focus on productivity improvements for the desktop, and will carry much-needed enhancements to Windows 10 Mobile users, which may or may not include Office Hub, HomeHub, UWP File Explorer, to name a few.
The said publication also noted Microsoft's Surface All-In-One device, codenamed "Cardinal" within the Microsoft office, as one of the most awaited products in the Oct. 26 event. It is said that the upcoming Microsoft Surface All-In-One will transform any ordinary desk into a studio, as it will be equipped with modular components, detachable monitor, plus printing support.
Furthermore, the new Surface All-in-One will use Perceptive Pixel screen technology, which is at the core of Surface Hub. Also, the device will be powered by a gaming compatible GTX-1080 video card while its display may come in 21-, 24- or 27-inch options, sporting 4K resolution. A new Surface keyboard and Pen is said to also be introduced for Cardinal.
Amazon's Echo competitor, Google Home is also rumored to be unveiled on the said event, detailing how the Google Assistant "Cortana" is positioned to be the center of user's life through a smart voice-activated speaker for home, Post learned. Other touted features are the ability to store files directly on the device such as music, video and documents, allowing them to be streamed to any other devices in the house.
One of the advantages of Google Home is its cheaper price compared to Amazon Echo. The device can also connect with Chromecast's ability to play video on television. Google Home's efficiency compared to Amazon's Echo is more helpful because it can solve even the simplest household problem, and even on assisting with the local traffic through the aid of Google Maps.
Meanwhile, aside from those mentioned above, it is rumored that Microsoft may reveal other features, including the possibility of transferring old apps and games into the Windows Store with its Project Centennial app-bridge. It is also highly likely that the Redmond-based tech giant may introduce its all new Skype Teams.