Microsoft to launch Surface Pro 4, Lumia 950, 950 XL and Band 2 at October event

Following the successful rollout of the new Windows operating system, it looks like Microsoft is now turning its focus to the hardware part. According to the latest disclosure, the Redmond-based tech major is planning a massive hardware event in October.

The event would mark the debut of the long-rumoured high-end Windows 10 Mobile phones codenamed Lumia Talkman (Lumia 950) and Cityman (Lumia 950 XL), the next-gen Surface Pro tablet and the successor to the current smartband – Microsoft Band 2. This was first reported by the Chinese site WPDang and later on confirmed by the Verge.

WPDang claims a slimmer version of Xbox One - the Xbox One Mini - is also expected alongside other Microsoft devices, but given the lack of rumours so far, the console is highly unlikely. Instead, Microsoft might bring out more Surface hardware apart from the Surface Pro 4.

A mini version of the Surface device was expected to be unveiled alongside the Surface Pro 3 in 2014, but the device was scrapped a week ahead of the launch. Nevertheless, rumour mills have been spinning on the additional Surface hardware for the October event. In terms of hardware, the Surface Pro 4 will not bring any major upgrade over the Pro 3.

DigiTimes which has earlier reported about the October launch of the Pro 4 states that it would sport an ultra-thin form factor, bezel and large display - like we have seen in the Pro 3. It is expected to use Intel's new Skylake chip and fingerprint scanner.

As for Band 2, information about the new smartband is scanty but considering the feedback for the original Microsoft Band, the new version is expected to be better in terms of look and feel.

Microsoft is yet to reveal details about the October event, but it is holding a Windows 10-related hardware event at the 2015 IFA trade show in Berlin, where there will not be any announcement of a new Surface or high-end Lumia handsets.