Microsoft has announced plans to hold a mysterious event on Monday 18 June, sparking rumours of a possible tablet unveiling.

Speculation is rife that the company could be planning to introduce its own Windows 8 tablet to take on Apple's iPad, The Wrap reported.

However, tech site ZDNet has suggested that a 7-inch tablet powered by a version of Windows Phone could be on the cards to take on Amazon's Kindle Fire.

Amazon's slate has carved out a significant piece of the tablet pie thanks to its $250 price tag and Amazon ecosystem.

Microsoft has also recently concluded an agreement with Barnes & Noble, manufacturers of the Nook tablet, with the filings containing references to Windows Phone and a "Microsoft Reader".