A Worker Adjusts A Logo On The Microsoft Stand
A worker adjusts a logo on the Microsoft stand at the CeBIT computer fair in Hanover February 27, 2011. Reuters/Tobias Schwarz

Microsoft is speculated to be working on an upgraded version of the Surface Pro 4, with the company not only expected to announce the Surface Pro 5 this year, but also the Surface Book 2 to succeed its first generation model.

Microsoft Surface Pro 5 specifications and features

According to Tech Radar, the rumour mill has already started talking about the Surface Pro 5 specifications and features. Speculations are rife that the Surface Pro 5 will be powered by an Intel Skylake processor and will come preinstalled with the Windows 10 Redstone 2 operating system.

It is said that manufacturers are working on improving the battery performance on the Surface Pro 5, with the 2-in-1 detachable reportedly going to deliver seven hours of battery life.

The gadget is also expected to arrive with an enhanced rechargeable Surface Pen stylus that will feature a power button, charging port as well as a notification light.

The Surface Pro 4 offers a resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels on its 12.3-inch version, but its successor is expected to carry support for 4K resolution. Early speculations also indicate that Microsoft may increase the display size of the Surface Pro 5 to 13.3-inches. One of the reasons behind its display size may be that its rival, the iPad Pro, comes with a larger 12.9-inch screen.

The Surface Pro 4 does not feature a USB-Type C connector, a feature that is already available on its competitors like Chromebook Pixel and MacBook. Hence, it is one of the expected features of the Surface Pro 5.

Microsoft Surface Pro 5 release date and price

The Surface Pro 4 was unleashed in October 2015 and went on sale in November, and the Surface Pro 5 release date is also expected in October 2016. As far as Surface Pro 5 pricing is concerned, its base model is expected to start at US$899 (AU$1200).