In the wake of Microsoft's (MSFT 3.90%) intention to acquire Nokia's (NOK +3.53%) handset business, the fate of Nokia's rumored "Sirius" tablet was uncertain. Nokia is reportedly planning to launch new phones alongside its tablet at an October event. It remains to be seen whether this tablet will run Windows 8 or the controversial Windows RT.
Earlier this week, Dell discontinued its last remaining Windows RT device, the XPS 10 tablet, leaving Microsoft as the sole vendor of Windows RT devices. The platform doesn't have a good track record and has created considerable confusion around the platform. Will Nokia join Microsoft in the RT camp or go with the full-featured Windows 8?
Microsoft's primary motivation for sticking with RT is to target lower price points while delivering better battery life. The latest Intel Atom chips largely meet these goals, putting another nail in RT's coffin. The deal is expected to close in early 2014, so until then Nokia appears to be proceeding along its original schedule.
In today's episode of Tech Teardown, Erin Kennedy discusses the prospect of a Nokia tablet with Evan Niu, CFA, and Jamal Carnette.
