Microsoft could be preparing to axe Windows RT

Microsoft is looking increasingly likely to be preparing to axe Windows RT, the variant of Windows designed to run on the company's ARM chip-powered Surface tablet devices.

Speaking to The Guardian, Microsoft's executive vice-President of Devices and Studios Julie Larson-Green all but confirmed that the software giant would axe the Windows RT version: "We have the Windows Phone OS. We have Windows RT and we have full Windows. We're not going to have three."

The report goes on to note that Windows RT-powered devices have sold very badly since launch – forcing a $900m write down on unsold kit this summer. Only Microsoft and Nokia's handset division manufacture devices using the operating system today.

Richard Windsor, who runs the Radio Free Mobile consultancy, told the Guardian: "I have long suspected which is that Windows RT will be killed off sooner rather than later. Always one to treat hot potatoes delicately, Microsoft has not explicitly said that RT will be terminated but has made it very clear that there will not be three operating systems. Windows RT is an orphan child that sits between Windows 8 and Windows Phone and is neither fish nor fowl."

Windsor predicted that the Surface 2 would be Windows RT's last device and that the platform will be officially axed next year.