Microsoft Surface Phone specs, news update: foldable features can transform handset to tablet

The Microsoft Surface Phone may be patterned after the Microsoft Surface Pro as a recent leak suggests that it can be used as a tablet as well. Fortunately, it may also be positioned as an affordable device.

The strong performance of the Surface Pro in the market may be the reason why the Surface Phone will also have hybrid features. A new patent spotted by MSPoweruser indicates that the imminent handset can be transformed into a tablet as well.

The Patent No. 9,541,962 was reportedly submitted by Kabir Siddiqui for Microsoft, which the United States Patent and Trademark approved on Jan. 10. Enthusiasts say that the patent has a high probability of being launched in the market as Siddiqui has already authored a few Surface-based products that are already used by the consumers.

It seems like the Microsoft Surface Phone will also be a foldable tablet that has a flexible hinge. This would give customers a win-win deal as some are considering several important factors in buying a device. For instance, one user may be purchasing a handset that has a small display for phone calls, and own a tablet to answer emails. The Surface Phone targets both needs in one device.

The Microsoft Surface Phone, as seen from the leak, has a flexible hinge so as to keep the housing secured. It also allows the device to be rotated at a specific axis so as to conveniently display the viewing area of the device.

As for the specs, the display is said to measure around 5.5 inches, but when a user opts to use it as a mini tablet, the screen could be transformed to 7.9 inches.

Enthusiasts believe that the Microsoft Surface Phone will have a tight competition with Samsung and LG. Both companies are also expected to release their own powerful gadget with foldable features. Samsung has a Galaxy X that could be released at the end of the year, while LG's flagship device may be launched early 2018.