According to a new patent application, Microsoft has developed a modular phone where the rear slides out. This back section has replacable elements that includes a solid keyboard (ideal for those who struggle with touch screen typing), an extra battery pack, a second display or – and this is what has piqued SPOnG's interest – a gaming controller.
With the handheld market growing increasingly lucrative, it's no surprise that Microsoft are looking for a slice of the pie. We can make a few assumptions; it'll invariably have Windows architechture and you just know they'll throw some kind of Xbox Live compatibility in there too. While it's not a full on leap into portable gaming from Microsoft (and it's still only a patent so is miles away) it's interesting to see the company dip a toe in the water.