Microsoft Tips Surface Mini at May 20 Event

Microsoft this week sent invitations to members of the media for a May 20 event in New York City, where the software giant is expected to unveil a scaled-down version of its Surface tablet.

"Join us for a small gathering," reads a message on the invite, which also includes a prominent Surface logo.

Rumors about a so-called Surface Mini with a 7- to 8-inch screen have been making the rounds for some time. The introduction of a smaller tablet would be a logical move for Microsoft, given that its 10.6-inch Surface and Surface 2 tablets (pictured) already exceed that of Apple's competitor, the 9.7-inch iPad.

Recent reports pegged the Surface Mini for a second-quarter debut, which isn't the first launch window that's been speculated for the smaller tablet.

Adding fuel to the fire, Chinese electronics seller Vostrostone last month posted two Surface Mini accessories on Amazon: an "ultra-thin Smart Cover case" and "mini-keyboard portfolio case," both of which only appear to be sized to fit a "Surface Mini" device.

:story: PC Magazine