Is Microsoft thinking of getting rid of the Surface Kickstand?

The Surface kickstand is an iconic element of the Surface and Surface Pro tablets, but a recently published patent suggests Microsoft may be looking at moving to something different.

The February 2018 patent for “COMPUTING DEVICES, REMOVABLE SUPPORT DEVICES, AND METHODS OF USE” describes a connector at the back of a tablet which features various mechanical and magnetic interconnects which can be used to attach the computer to a stand in a removable fashion.

Microsoft notes:

“A computing device having an interface surface and one or more attachment features oriented on the interface surface is described. A removable support device with an interface surface and one or more attachment features oriented on the interface surface is described. A support system with a computing device and a removable support device is described. A method of using a support system is described.”

The attachment points can be used to turn a Surface into a kiosk or place it into a desktop stand, as shown in this image below.

Microsoft also notes the attachment points can be used to insert the PC into a case which makes handheld use easier, similar to the rugged cases used in the NFL.

Microsoft’s main competitor, Apple with the iPad Pro, of course never released a device with an integrated kickstand, and that has not exactly held it back. In turn Surface Pro docking stations have been ugly and ungainly.

Would our readers mourn the passing of the kickstand? Let us know below.

Via WindowsLatest