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Apparently it’s 2004 because Microsoft is making an all-in-one desktop

Published Sep 29th, 2016 11:00PM EDT
Surface AIO vs. iMac
Image: Microsoft

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Microsoft is expected to unveil new Surface-branded hardware this year, including Surface Pro 5 and a Surface Book 2 tablet/laptops. But for the first time since introducing the Surface family of Windows devices, Microsoft may also launch a desktop computer of its own. Rumored to be an all-in-one (AIO) PC, the Surface desktop is expected to compete directly against Apple’s iMac.

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According to The Verge, Microsoft is currently targeting a late October launch event in New York City. That’s when at least one AIO PC should be unveiled. Apple is also going to unveil refreshed Macs in late October, according to recent reports.

German site WinFuture discovered even more evidence that Microsoft is serious about making desktop hardware: a listing for a Surface Ergonomic Keyboard at the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG). The name seems to indicate that Microsoft is making a Surface accessory that would fit a desktop PC rather than a 2-in-1 tablet/laptop. A product image for the keyboard isn’t available.

Microsoft has developed various keyboard accessories for its Surface devices in the past. If it’s launching a Surface AIO this year, it’s likely the computer will have its unique accessories. Apple’s iMac also has various accessories of its own, including mice, keyboards, and trackpads.

Details are scarce on what the Surface AIO will have to offer. But given Microsoft’s history of going after Apple products with its Surface devices, the PC will at least match the iMac’s specs.

Chris Smith Senior Writer

Chris Smith has been covering consumer electronics ever since the iPhone revolutionized the industry in 2008. When he’s not writing about the most recent tech news for BGR, he brings his entertainment expertise to Marvel’s Cinematic Universe and other blockbuster franchises.

Outside of work, you’ll catch him streaming almost every new movie and TV show release as soon as it's available.