Footage was recently unearthed on marketing agency DigitalKitchen's website of a handheld device dubbed the "Origami Project," created for Microsoft. Looking basically like a miniature tablet PC, the device was shown browsing the web, editing photos, running a GPS map program, and even playing Halo. Most functions used a stylus on the touchscreen, but Halo was controlled with the buttons on either side of the system. A detachable keyboard was also shown being used for chat.

An official statement from a Microsoft spokeswoman actually confirmed the existence of the project, telling website Silicon.com, "While Origami is a concept we've been working on with partners, please know that the video seen on DigitalKitchen’s website is a year old and represents our initial exploration into this form factor, including possible uses and scenarios."

This is where my conjecture comes in: If this is the mysterious Microsoft handheld that rumors were going around about a while back, then it doesn't look to be an attempt by MS to muscle in on the DS and PSP's territory. It's too bulky and simply does too much to be in the same market. It seems MS is simply looking for a midpoint between small, specific devices like iPods and gaming handhelds, and large, all-purpose systems like laptops.

The film was taken down on DigitalKitchen's website, but ever helpful YouTube has a copy of it here.

Source: Next Generation