Microsoft appears to be taking another stab at its partners as rumors have surfaced that Microsoft is developing a Windows Phone 8 device that would go toe-to-toe with the new iPhone, Samsung Galaxy S III, as well as its own partners' devices like the Nokia Lumia 920.

The new Surface-branded Windows Phone 8 smartphone will likely not launch with the first wave of Windows Phone 8 devices that are set to launch in November. Instead, BGR's sources figure it will launch sometime after Microsoft's partners have had their first launch wave. This should reduce the feeling that Microsoft is making an attack on their partners' businesses.

It will likely be a device featuring high-end specs like a fast dual-core processor, 1 Gigabyte of RAM, and an 8MP camera. Not much is known, other than the rumor that it is in late stages development. We will be sure to keep you posted if or when this rumor is confirmed.

Would you buy a Microsoft-made Windows Phone 8 device? Let us know!