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Microsoft Surface Pro 5 release date, specs news: 5th-gen PC tablet may be released in upcoming media event

An attendee photographs the new Microsoft Surface Pro 3, during the event in New York May 20, 2014. | Reuters/Brendan McDermid

Microsoft has an upcoming media event scheduled later this month. Although the official invites specifically mentioned Windows 10 as the highlight of the show, Surface Pro fans are still hoping that an update to the tech firm's popular PC tablet may also be launched.

The invitation carried the tagline, "Imagine what you'll do," in huge letters above the request to come and see the updated Windows 10. There are speculations that Microsoft will also be introducing new Surface hardware, but this could most likely be referring to an all-in-one desktop instead of a fifth-generation Surface Pro.

According to Tech Times, one possible reason for this is that a two-in-one PC tablet does not wear out its features as easily as smartphones tend to do. Since it belongs to a line of consumer-focused devices, it may take a while for the Microsoft Surface Pro 5 to be released.

Moreover, the current Surface Pro 4 is still on top of its game in terms of both price and performance. The device is now even selling at discounted prices on Amazon to reach more consumers.

On the other hand, PC Advisor speculated that a 2016 release may still be possible for the Microsoft Surface Pro 5. However, if Microsoft decides to release the fifth-generation PC tablet this year, it may still not be equipped with the much anticipated seventh-gen Kaby Lake processor.

Some of the rumored features of the upcoming Microsoft Surface Pro 5 include a wireless rechargeable battery, a possible upgrade to USB-C port, 16 GB RAM and a choice between a 2K and 4K screen. The cameras may also be updated with the latest Wi-Fi and Bluetooth versions.

Questions about whether or not the Surface Pro 5 releases this year will be answered at Microsoft's media event happening on Wednesday, Oct. 26 at 10 a.m. EDT in New York City.