Rumor: Microsoft to possibly release a Windows 8 tablet

(PhysOrg.com) -- Rumors are circulating around that Microsoft may be bringing a Windows 8 tablet to consumers in 2012. Reporters over at Digitimes have been theorizing, based on information from a chip-supplier, that the Redmond, Washington, based software giant may be putting out a tablet of its own in the near future. As is expected with a rumor of this nature, the company has declined to comment.

While some reporters and bloggers are speculating that this may be part of Windows attempt to create an iPad killer, few are pointing out the holes in that theory. First is the fact that Windows current model of licensing out the Windows 7 operating system to third party tablet makers is relatively low risk and highly profitable for Microsoft. Few companies are willing to rock the boat on a profitable business model.

The second reason that Microsoft trying to make their own iPad killer would be unlikely is that history is not on their side. Many of us remember the ill fate of the Zune, which at the time was launched as competition to the now ubiquitous iPod family of device. Then there is the Kin, a Microsoft phone, which failed to take a bite out of the iPhone popularity. It was pulled from the market after failing to sell.

If Microsoft has learned it lesson about coming late to market against Apple in mobile devices, they'll stick with their profitable licensing agreements and let their partners with stronger track records in mobile, like Motorola, try to make an iPad killer.