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Windows RT is officially dead

Windows RT is officially dead

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Microsoft was left alone as the last manufacturer of Windows RT-based tablets, and now the software giant is no longer producing any RT devices. A Microsoft spokesperson has confirmed to The Verge that the company is no longer manufacturing its Nokia Lumia 2520 Windows RT tablet. "We are no longer manufacturing Nokia Lumia 2520; however, those still eager to buy Nokia Lumia 2520 should visit Microsoft Retail Stores, MicrosoftStore.com, third-party retailers and resellers for the latest availability." The confirmation comes just a week after Microsoft revealed it has stopped manufacturing the Surface 2, another Windows RT tablet.

While Lenovo, Asus, Samsung, and Dell backed Windows RT initially, all of the tablet makers pulled out due to slow sales and a lack of interest from consumers. It appears that Microsoft’s experiment with ARM-based tablets has largely failed in a tablet market that is starting to show signs of slowing down. A lack of touch-based apps, a confusing desktop mode, and odd naming made Windows RT a bizarre trial for Microsoft. Most PC makers have opted for Intel-based chips in 7- and 8-inch Windows tablets recently.

All eyes are now on Windows 10. Microsoft has shown some features of Windows 10 for phones, but it’s not clear if we’ll see 7- and 8-inch ARM-based Windows 10 devices. A preview version of Windows 10 for tablets is designed for 8-inch devices and above, and Microsoft is not commenting on its plans for future ARM-based tablets. With Surface 2 dead and Surface revenue improving thanks to stronger Surface Pro 3 sales, it’s clear Microsoft is now focused on its "professional" Intel-based tablet. Windows RT is now a distant memory.