Microsoft has begun sending out invites to its greatly anticipated launch event next month, at which it's expected to unveil a wide range of new hardware. The event is being held in New York City on October 6, and will be streamed online, and the company promises to reveal "some exciting news about Windows 10 devices" there".

Among the devices expected are the company's new Surface Pro 4 tablet, featuring Intel's new sixth-generation 'Skylake' processors, support for Windows Hello password-free biometric authentication, and more.

Microsoft's long-awaited new Lumia 950 and Lumia 950 XL flagships, running Windows 10 Mobile, will also make their first official appearance following recent leaks.

A new version of the Microsoft Band wearable device is expected to make an appearance too - and the company may yet have one or two other surprises up its sleeve.