It has already been more than a year since Microsoft officially released the Surface Pro 3 but the company still hasn't announced when it will launch the laptop-tablet hybrid's successor.

But, given the spike in rumors recently about the device, the Redmond-based tech firm might actually be preparing to unveil the Surface Pro 4 later this year.

Another factor that points to a 2015 release of the device is the huge discounts that Microsoft is offering for the Surface Pro 3. As reported by International Business Times, the company has slashed the prices of the various versions of the laplet by $150. This move strongly suggests that Microsoft is clearing up its shelves in order to make way for a next-generation device

As to when the public might see the Surface Pro 4, various sources noted that Microsoft's upcoming flagship laplet could come out in October. This seems like a perfect period for the company to release a new device now that its Windows 10 platform already came out.

Hopefully by that time, Microsoft would have already fixed and patched up all the issues of its latest operating system.

In addition, launching the Surface Pro 4 in October will put Microsoft in an advantageous spot over its rival Apple. Recently, it was rumored that the latter is gearing up to introduce the iPad Pro in November, according to Design & Trend.

By staying ahead of its rival by a month and avoiding going toe-to-toe with Apple, Microsoft will have plenty of time to attract the attention of consumers with its new device.

As for its features, PC Advisor reported that the Surface Pro 4 will probably sport a 14-inch display, which is a significant upgrade over its 12-inch predecessor.

Although it is expected to be powered by the Intel Core M Broadwell processor, Microsoft could also go in a different direction and equip it with the Skylake, which is expected to be unveiled later this year.

Depending on the processor model's release schedule, the Surface Pro 4 could be one of the few devices that will be released with this powerful sixth-gen Core chip.