• Microsoft will reportedly come out with a Surface AIO PC which will target Apple's iMac

Microsoft will reportedly come out with a Surface AIO PC which will target Apple's iMac (Photo : Getty Images/ Bryan Thomas)

Microsoft may be stepping on the gas with word that the company plans to invade the AIO niche in 2017. The word out is that an AIO Surface PC will reinforce two widely mentioned devices – the Surface Phone and a Surface Tablet.

While that plan remains up for confirmation, the plot thickens with word that Microsoft plans to use the alleged AIO Surface PC against Apple’s iMac. While the rivalry is understandable, there are some who do not see the intent behind the move. With the PC market on the decline, the trend on demand is expected to further dip by 12.6 million units in 2016 according to Digitimes.

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A reason behind this is that AIOs have been promoted for years by other vendors and so far none have really left a good impression according to Extreme Tech. But then again, the move could also be part of something bigger, like integrating these AIOs with commercial solutions using its touch screen interface and cameras in the modern world.

But with OEMs looming, many are puzzled at how Microsoft can possibly win them over. The move is met with skepticism particularly with the fact that penetrating a dilapidating market may end up bringing more woes than success to the famed OS manufacturer.

Then again, Microsoft may be setting a certain degree of investment to see if they can stir up something. With the success of its Surface Pro laplets, the company may be broadening solutions for modern day solutions.

The Surface AIOs could integrate other patented features on their end. That includes the possible integration of Pixel Sense technology according to Windows Central. If ever, there is a chance that a PixelSense table-PC concept could materialize and hint at a device that could be of use in the home setting.

For the record, the original Surface based on PixelSense was unveiled way back in 2007 by former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. Could Microsoft be rebooting that idea and make it an improved and modern day solution? If so, it will be interesting how the market will react to such – both consumers and rival tech companies.

Check out the video below touching in Microsoft's planned AIO Surface PC.