We've previously reported that Microsoft is working on a foldable Surface device focused on inking, codenamed Andromeda. Recently, a set of patent filings surfaced, giving us a closer look at Microsoft may have up its sleeve. Now, thanks to designer David Breyer (via The Verge), we have an even better look at what a Surface device based on those patents may look like – and the result is pretty sleek.
Breyer took the recent patent filings and turned them into an impressive set of 3D concepts. The renders explore how the folding device might look in different configurations, showing how the two screens might work when working as one, or folded into separate sections.
@zacbowden @h0x0d @windowscentral #Surface Andromeda Render according to the latest patents pic.twitter.com/CmbvlfETtU@zacbowden @h0x0d @windowscentral #Surface Andromeda Render according to the latest patents pic.twitter.com/CmbvlfETtU— David Breyer (@D_Breyer) December 18, 2017December 18, 2017
Microsoft's Andromeda device is expected to be somewhat of a revival of the company's canceled Courier tablet, allowing users to take advantage of CShell to enable unique experiences. The device is expected to be able to recognize multiple folded modes, adjustig to suit its configuratio, whether flat, tent, or "laptop" mode. Inking is expected to be a focus here, with note taking and similar functions receiving specific attention.
Patents can be hard to envision as a finished product, so it's striking to see the difference between the recent filings and what a finalized device based on them might look like. That said, it's worth stressing that these renders are based on patents, and we might never see such a device go on sale. Still, it's neat to see concepts detailed in the patents in a more lifelike form.
