In recent years, Microsoft has traditionally hosted a major product launch event in New York during late October, unveiling its latest Surface devices and other innovations to the public. However, according to reports from BI, a leading U.S. online media outlet, Microsoft is breaking this long-standing tradition this year. Instead of holding a large-scale conference, the company will take a more low-key approach, gradually releasing news throughout October.
This shift suggests that Microsoft may not be planning any major product launches for the remainder of 2017. The strategy appears to be more about maintaining a steady flow of updates rather than a big reveal. This could signal a strategic pause, allowing the company to focus on refining existing products and software before potentially launching something more groundbreaking next year.
Microsoft recently sent out invitations for a press event in San Francisco on October 3rd—just one day before Google’s hardware event. The focus of this gathering will be on virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). The keynote speech will be delivered by Alex Kipman, a Microsoft Technical Fellow known for creating the HoloLens "holographic" glasses. These high-end devices currently cost $3,000 and are only available as developer editions.
However, it seems the main highlight of the event will be the VR features coming with the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update on October 10th. This implies that no new HoloLens hardware will be released this year, leaving those hoping for a more affordable version of the device to wait a bit longer.
Additionally, Panos Panay, Microsoft's head of hardware, will be at the Microsoft Future Decoded event in London on October 31st. But according to insiders, his role there will be more about promoting the Surface line rather than introducing new hardware.
Microsoft has been quite active in 2017 so far. Earlier this year, they launched the new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop. In mid-October, the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update will bring a more affordable VR headset priced at just $300. Then, on November 7th, the Xbox One X will hit the market, promising to be the most powerful gaming console ever made.
Despite all these developments, fans eagerly awaiting a cheaper HoloLens, a Surface Phone, or even a new Surface Book may feel a bit let down. It looks like Microsoft is taking a step back from big hardware announcements this year, focusing instead on software and ecosystem improvements.
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