Prior to recent reports of Microsoft possibly cancelling the release of the Surface Phone, new reports are now claiming that the new smartphone will be made available by 2017.

According to Tech Times, Microsoft will even release three variants of the phone next year. "These upcoming three variants of the much-anticipated Microsoft Surface phone are aimed at different pricing tiers and markets," the report mentioned.

"Another interesting information the sources have revealed is that Microsoft may be readying three models to include in its Surface phone family, ranging from Consumer, Business or Prosumer / Enthusiast."

It was previously rumored that the tech giant could drop making the Surface Phone to focus on software development. According to News Independent, "Microsoft's hardware ventures, especially their mobile phone ventures, have been rather unsuccessful and it has been estimated that the company has bled out close to $15 Billion in losses over the same. The Surface Phone was expected to help give them a boost in the markets."

"The Surface Phone was a very ambitious project, but the signs seem to indicate towards its cancellation. With Terry suggesting 'this year' phones are not an important part, it is more than likely that the Surface Phone device project has been shelved," the report added.

Some of the phone's notable features include a 6 to 8GB of RAM, up to 500GB of internal storage and a continuum liquid cooling technology. This early, rumors are rife that the phone will be offered at $700 to $1200.

What do you think about the Microsoft Surface Phone? Stay tuned for more release date updates here!