Microsoft expected to detail tablet strategy at Windows Phone 7 events

Reacting to fears that iPad sales may be outstripping pre-launch estimates, reports suggest Microsoft may be planning to detail its Windows tablet strategy during Windows Phone 7 launch events on October 11.

The firm has already confirmed it will officially unveiled its new smartphone OS to the world via two launch bonanzas - one in New York, the other in London.

However, following on from confirmation from chief executive Steve Ballmer that Windows tablets will hit the market before Christmas, Neowin.net reports Microsoft will cast some light on its forthcoming iPad killers, leading to logical speculation regarding just what OS they'll be running.

Eyes on iPad

Though Microsoft has told the site it has no plans to launch a physical device at either event, it did not comment on whether its tablet strategy would form any part of its schedule.

Indeed, Neowin.net states sources familiar with the matter have gone as far as to say that the company will hint at its future tablet plans during Windows Phone 7's debut.

Time certainly appears to be of the essence here, with any announcement regarding Microsoft's tablet plans already being pitched as a reaction to concerns that iPad is eating into previously burgeoning sales of cheap, Windows 7 powered netbooks.

Which Windows?

If proven true, the smartphone platform's launch events would be something of an uncomfortable fit for any talk of tablets, given Windows 7 is the chosen OS, rather than Windows Phone 7.

Indeed, HP's Slate which is due to launch before the end of the year is a Windows 7 powered device, despite calls from many commentators for Microsoft to adopt Windows Phone 7 for tablets, given its what's claimed is an aesthetic suitability for touchscreen devices.

All, of course, will be revealed on October 11, when Microsoft's tablet plans either via an official announcement, or the absence of one  will become clear.

[source: Apple Insider]