Microsoft Expands Production, Distribution of Surface RT

Despite rumors to the contrary, Microsoft has announced that it will expand production of the Surface RT and its distribution to more retailers as soon as mid-December. The U.S. and Australia are specifically mentioned for near-term distribution. Other countries will be included in the distribution expansion "in the coming months," according to Microsoft.

In a press release, Panos Panay, General Manager of Microsoft Surface also said that the company would extend the planned life of its holiday (or "popup") stores into 2013. Some of the stores will become permanent, while others will transition into "either permanent brick-and-mortar retail outlets or specialty store locations."

Hat tip to soon-to-be-ex Microsoft President Steven Sinofsky on Twitter.