Folding Microsoft Surface that can run Android apps is tipped to launch in the Q1 of 2020

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Microsoft reportedly showed off a folding Surface laptop at a recent internal event. Now, we’re getting hints that this device will be launching in the coming year. According to Jeff Lin, associate director for consumer electronics at HIS Markit, this folding device will reportedly hit the market in either the first quarter or the first half of 2020. The analyst cites sources from “supply chain info.” This device will reportedly have two 9-inch displays with a 4:3 aspect ratio. It’ll run on Windows Core OS with a dual display UI, and it’s expected to run Android apps as well as offer iCloud services. Intel’s 10nm Lakefield processors are expected to power this LTE/5G device. Now, all we have to do is wait for Microsoft to confirm that this device will be heading to the market. Right now they’re declining to comment on future products.

Source: Forbes

Microsoft ends Surface Plus financing program

One way to get easy access to a Microsoft Surface device was through the Surface Plus financing program. Financed by Stockholm-based online financial services provider Klarna, the program was targeted towards students and other people who needed a more affordable way to purchase a Surface device. This program let them spread payments over a 24-month period. It also let customers upgrade to the latest device after 18 months with the caveat that the previous device is still in good working condition. But it seems “after much thought and consideration” Microsoft is shutting down this program. The company stopped taking enrollments at the end of August.  

If you are an existing customer though, this change won’t affect you. You are still covered by your existing financing plan. You will also still be able to upgrade your Surface device under the plan’s terms. It also doesn’t affect existing warranty plans. And for those who availed the Surface Plus for Business payment plans, that one still looks like it’s going to continue. 

Source: TechCrunch 

Microsoft reportedly coming out with lower cost Surface tablet

A report from Bloomberg says that Microsoft is getting ready to release a more affordable Surface-branded tablet costing around US $400 by late 2018. Written by Mark Gurman, a prolific Apple leaker who has a good track record and accurate sources, this report shows Microsoft may be ready to capture a wider market segment with Surface.

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The importance of the Education market to the future of technology companies

By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

The education market has always been an important segment for makers of technology hardware and software.

Demonstrating how technology can improve learning, enable innovation and ideas as well as shatter barriers to learning is more than a great slide during a tech demo. It shows the desire to inspire new generations of technologists, or at the very least, loyal users.

The notion that students and schools use technology that they will be familiar with and will stick with in the future. If your high school had iMacs at the computer lab and used Apple software, then you will likely look to get a Mac when you go to university and beyond.

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