Microsoft cuts Surface RT orders by 50 per cent

Microsoft has cut orders for its Surface RT tablet by 50 per cent, according to reports. 

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer described initial sales of the Windows RT-powered slate as ‘modest,’ which is another way of saying not very good. 

The company originally ordered 4 million Surface RT slates from the Original Design Manufacturers in Asia but has now reduced that figure to two million, following a lukewarm response from consumers. 

Now, according to online rumour mill DigiTimes, Microsoft intends to focus its attention on the Surface Pro – a hybrid slate that runs Windows 8-proper – and is even said to be bringing the release date forwards to December. 

‘The sources also pointed out that Surface RT is also unlikely to achieve great performance in the upcoming quarter which may force Microsoft to bring out its Intel-based Surface Pro tablet earlier in December,’ claims the report. 

DigiTimes’ source also claimed that Microsoft may even consider reducing the price of the Surface Pro in order to facilitate more sales once it launches. 

Microsoft officially detailed the Surface Pro yesterday, confirming spec, US pricing, and availability. The company made no mention of releasing the device in December, however. 

More news as we get it.