MANILA, Philippines – Will Microsoft be developing a gaming tablet?

The Verge reports that this may be the case, as sources “familiar with plans within Redmond” are confirming initial hardware planning for something dubbed the Xbox Surface.

Those familiar with recent Microsoft goings-on will note that the Windows 8 operating system was also introduced with new Microsoft-branded hardware in the form of the Microsoft Surface RT.

An Xbox Surface would thus appear to be a 7-inch tablet with increased hardware specifications to handle games.

According to the report, Microsoft Surface tablets are developed using a secret hardware production process that is separate from the processes responsible for Xbox console development.

It is likely that the Xbox surface would be developed by the factory in charge of Surface production.

A spokesperson for Microsoft replied to The Verge’s request for comment, saying that the company does not comment on rumors and speculation. – Rappler.com