Microsoft planning branded tablet

Software giant Microsoft may be planning the release of its own branded tablet computer, according to a new report in DigiTimes.

Sources have informed the publication that Microsoft is working with Texas Instruments and manufacturers in Taiwan to produce the tablet.

It also reports the gadget could come pre-installed with Windows 8, which was recently previewed at a special press event, with a release date some time during 2012.

Microsoft has already seen Windows software installed on a number of new tablets, but it has not marketed such a gadget under its own brand.

While it has found success with the Xbox gaming console, its Zune media players did not compete well against the iPod. Putting a self-branded tablet in the mix could help the company compete against Apple.