In the lead-up to Microsoft's October 2 event, the rumor mill has lit up about the potential Surface updates, including a new black color option. Now, thanks to an official Microsoft listing for an October 16 event (via WalkingCat) set to take place in Auckland, New Zealand, it seems the fresh coat of paint is all but confirmed.

The event carries the unsubtle title of "Surface Back to Black," and calls back to the black chassis present on 2012's Surface RT. From the description:

In April 2012, Microsoft launched the Surface RT, its sleek black chassis, detachable keyboard and integrated kick stand started a wave of innovation that has no signs of slowing down. Surface devices have inspired people to draw on their screens, work anywhere, collaborate across the world on 84inch Hubs, crank the volume with dial and even float their all in one screen up and down with a zero gravity hinge. It is safe to say the devices have come a long way in 6 years. But in October 2018, Surface goes Back to Black.

So, if you were looking forward to going back to black with your next Surface, it looks like Microsoft may just have a treat in store for you this week.

As for what else is in store, we're expecting hardware refreshes for the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, but everything else is up in the air at this point. But one thing's for sure: we'll know exactly what Microsoft has in store when it kicks things off on October 2 at 1 p.m. PT / 4 p.m. ET. So far, it doesn't look like Microsoft is livestreaming this event, but keep your eyes locked to Windows Central for all of the news as it develops.

Everything to expect at Microsoft's October 2 hardware event — and what not to