Microsoft's Surface Pro 7 could arrive with a significantly thinner keyboard

Spotted by WindowsUnited, a new patent hints at an updated manufacturing process that involves etching the Surface Pro’s keyboard in order to create a thinner product. Furthermore, it appears Microsoft is currently researching a new trackpad integration that sits directly in the keyboard’s circuit board.

In regards to the tablet itself, no details are provided in the patent listing. However, if previous rumors are indeed accurate, the much thinner keyboard could be paired with a significantly smaller tablet that employs reduced bezels, thus following in the footsteps of Apple’s latest iPad Pro models. In addition to this, the overall look is expected to be 20% lighter than the current-generation and more rounded. Also set to make an appearance is a USB-C port.

If Microsoft sticks to its usual release schedule, the updated Surface Pro 7 could make its debut in October alongside the fall 2019 Windows 10 update. Until then, though, consumers will have to opt for either the Surface Pro 6 or the smaller Surface Go.