Microsoft invites the press for a 20 May Surface-related event, and the grapevine immediately hints on what the event will actually involve with rumours of a smaller version of the tablet.

After all, the invitation describes the event as "a small gathering"-- a possible reference to not the size of the press-only audience but that of the device in question.

Bloomerg is one top source for Surface rumours, with anonymous sources claiming the event will feature multiple Surface models running on Intel and Qualcomm hardware.

Such news would bring a blow to Nvidia, whose Tegra chips power the Windows RT Surface variant.

Meanwhile well known Windows blogger Paul Thurrot confirms earlier Neowin claims on the miniature Surface featuring stylus input with a "proper pen," meaning Wacom (or comparable) digitiser support.

Such capability would make the Surface an attractive note-taking device, especially with OneNote and Office integration.

Thurrot adds the tablet will launch with a number of accessories, including a click-in cover with a multi-position kickstand.

Either way we will know for sure what Microsoft has in store in two weeks' time.

Go Microsoft Said to Use Qualcomm Chips in Smaller Surface

Go Microsoft to Launch Surface Mini on May 20 (WindowsITPro.com)