That's according to Acer founder Stan Shih, who has claimed there is more money for Microsoft to make licensing software to other OEMs than manufacturing its own tablet.
In Shih's view, Surface is being used by Microsoft as something of a kick up the backside for existing Windows 8 OEMs, illustrating what the Redmond giant expects them to achieve with the OS.
Short-term Surface
"Once the purpose is realized, Microsoft will not offer more models," Shih reportedly told DigiTimes.
Indeed, though manufacturers claimed to be clueless as to Microsoft's Surface plans, none have so far suggested they plan to drop support for the OS.
In fact, Dell has claimed it is looking forward to "delivering a full slate of Windows 8 tablets...later this fall" despite Surface's appearance.
Shih's take falls in line with PocketGamer.biz deputy editor Keith Andrew's own view, who took the site's pages to claim Surface's appearance suggested Microsoft was wary of manufacturers serving up "substandard devices that failed to play to Windows 8's strengths."
"Surface is a vision of what Microsoft hopes manufacturers will deliver of their own accord: a piece of hardware with a sense of design, headline-grabbing innovations, and a simple brand devoid a complicated number structure or additional handles," detailed Andrew.
[source: CNET]
