Microsoft declined to comment on rumors that it's about to release an iPad version of its Office productivity suite. "We have nothing to share at this time," a Microsoft spokesperson told Ars via e-mail—a statement that will do nothing to curb the apparent enthusiasm for the as-yet-unannounced iOS app.

On Tuesday morning, The Daily published a photo that appeared to show Microsoft Office running on an iPad. The publication cited sources who claimed the app would soon be submitted for approval in the App Store; the design team has allegedly wrapped up the project and it "could be released in the coming weeks." The Daily also claimed to have had some hands-on time with a "working prototype" of the software, noting that the interface was similar to Microsoft's OneNote app.

"Word, Excel and PowerPoint files can be created and edited locally and online. But it’s unclear if Microsoft will support other Office apps at launch or at all," the site wrote.

Ars was unable to obtain independent confirmation of the app's existence from our own sources, and as such, we're left feeling skeptical of The Daily's claims. For one, it's likely that the Mac BU would be involved in the development of an iPad app, and the photo appears to show no Mac BU branding. Additionally, three-apps-in-one is atypical for the App Store and may not pass Apple's review. And finally, the claim that Microsoft could take an app from design-to-finished product within weeks seems especially aggressive, and it's highly unlikely that the app would be coded before the design is finalized.

Still, these points aren't likely to dissuade those who have been waiting for Microsoft to release such an app for iOS devices, and Microsoft's vague statement will only feed the fire. But is there really a need for an official version of Office on the iPad? iOS users can view certain Office documents without the need for extra software, and there are already third-party apps that can edit Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents. Should Microsoft use its resources on developing its own app for (seemingly) the same purpose? Let us know what you think.

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