Ahead of big Microsoft Surface event, leaks point to plans for device strategy and refreshed gadgets

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A leaked screenshot purported to be from a Surface video. (Photo Via Twitter / WalkingCat)

With just a couple days to go before the big Microsoft Surface event in New York City, the leaks are starting to pile up.

Microsoft observer WalkingCat posted several images on Twitter purported to be from videos that the company will show at Wednesday’s event. The images don’t reveal much, but they do include a slogan — Anything but ordinary — that could be the theme of the event. The images show two Surface tablets, a laptop and a picture of someone getting inside a car, likely with a device in the bag.

In addition to these images, French blog Frandroid claims it has seen images of the Surface Pro 7 and Surface Laptop 3, both of which are expected to debut at the event. According to the blog, Surface Pro 7 will feature a nearly “borderless display” with a smaller bezel and USB-C ports. Surface Laptop 3 has also added USB-C ports, according to the report, and it will include a version without the Alcantara fabric covering that has become a signature part of the Surface look and feel.

The centerpiece of this week’s event could be a brand new device, the long-rumored foldable, dual-screen Surface. Last week, Windows Latest spotted a patent for a dual-screen device “thermal management control” to handle cooling of the gadget, the latest sign that Microsoft is continuing to refine the concept.

Microsoft recently received a patent for a new portable speaker that could be used for meetings. Patent filings show a fabric-covered cylindrical device that resembles a Google Home Mini. 

Microsoft declined to comment.

Secrets from these big device reveals have become harder and harder to protect. Spoilers dampened surprises out of recent events from Apple and Amazon, including leaks about new Alexa-powered earbuds. Google is taking a different approach, electing to share some of the details of its devices event later this month in advance.

Microsoft has teased the event quite a bit over the past few weeks, fanning the flames of speculation as it promises “new and innovative things.” In one Tweet, the company urges users to tune in on Twitter to watch the unveiling.

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