It has been longed rumored that Microsoft is working on its own Windows Phone 8 device, dubbed the Surface phone. This makes sense, since the company surprised the world earlier this year with the announcement of the Surface tablets.

Microsoft won't be stopping there, according to the Wall Street Journal. The company is reportedly testing a Windows Phone 8 device with an Asian supplier. No word which supplier this could be. Reports say the screen size of this Microsoft Surface-branded phone is around 4-5 inches, comparable to all the top-end phones in the market.

Mobile & Apps recently reported that Microsoft is planning its own Windows Phone 8 device with the Surface branding. Still, this phone might just be an attempt by Microsoft to go the road alone if Windows Phone 8 fails to take off with current and future handsets from various manufacturers such as Nokia and HTC. Microsoft might not feel compelled to enter the handset hardware arena again after the failure known as the Kin, but the company may not have a choice if OEMs fail to deliver.

The HTC 8X and Nokia Lumia 920 are the most talked-about Windows Phone 8 devices to date, with the Samsung ATIV S sitting a distant third. Nokia in particular has a lot of work to do. This company partnered with Microsoft to see the growth of Windows Phone skyrocket, but that hasn't happened yet. So don't be surprised if Microsoft is getting annoyed.

Microsoft right now needs to give it time. Windows Phone 8 is fresh out of the gates and has been getting rave reviews from critics. Consumers seem to be really excited about the Nokia Lumia 920 and HTC 8X. All that needs to happen now is these excitements have convert to real sales for hardwares, or else it would all be pointless.