Crazy Consumer Electronics World: Cheaper Windows and WP devices are coming in 2014, says Microsoft

Microsoft has so far competed mainly with Apple when it comes to its top-of-the-line Windows and Windows Phone devices, but it might soon set its sights on more budget-oriented competitors.

The company is keen to get the prices of its tablets and smartphones down this year, Microsoft Vice President of OEM Partners Nick Parker said at Computex Asia, according to The Wall Street Journal.

"We'll reach price points that are very industry competitive for 7, 8, 10-inch devices," Parker reportedly said.

Where smaller-sized Windows tablets cost between $300 (about £180, AU$320) and $500 (about £300, AU$540) in 2013, in 2014 will see devices between $100 (about £60, AU$110) and $300.

Everyone loves a surprise

In addition Windows Phone handsets under $200 (about £120, AU$215) will appear in some markets, Parker said.

He added that these price points "will really surprise you," although he sort of just gave that surprise away.

Microsoft made Windows free to device makers working in the sub-9 inches space in April, which could help enable them to offer lower prices. But it's important to note that Parker's promises apply to devices 10 inches and smaller, which exempts devices like the premium-priced Surface Pro line.

Where Microsoft has so far failed to make a noticeable dent in Apple's business, perhaps it can carve out part of Android's lower-priced niche instead.