Report: Microsoft Surface Neo delayed until 2021

It’s Thursday, and the rumor mill is churning. While the Surface Neo’s expected release date was within the 2020 calendar year, rumors indicate Microsoft has delayed its arrival until 2021.

According to reports, Microsoft’s chief product officer, Panos Panay, informed a handful of his internal team members that Microsoft no longer plans to deliver the Surface Neo dual-screen 10X devices this year. Panay also shared that Microsoft won't enable third-party dual-screen Windows devices to ship with Windows 10X in 2020.

Microsoft's new priority is to get Windows 10X on single-screen devices. This shift in priorities isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as it’s great news for those hoping Microsoft will push to equip its clamshell and single-screen devices with Windows 10X.

It’s fair to wonder what caused this delay. At this point, it’s hard not to speculate whether or not it’s related to the coronavirus outbreak. The delay could point to supply chain problems or even a general disruption among teams as they deal with the virus’ impact. It’s also possible the OS simply fell behind schedule and a delay was inevitable.  

Despite this delay, users may get an inside look at what Windows 10X has to offer before the end of the calendar year. Reports indicate that a selection of 10X features could be available to Windows 10 users soon. 

Despite the alleged delay of the Surface Neo, it appears the Surface Duo is still on target for a late 2020 launch.