Microsoft Corp. introduced an end-to-end revamp of its Surface devices, including an update to its popular two-in-one laptop model, as part of a push to become a major force in computer hardware.
The new lineup, unveiled at an event on Wednesday, refreshes three of its hybrid laptop-tablet devices, adds 5G to its Surface Duo phone and launches a new pro-focused laptop studio device.
Apple Inc., Samsung Electronics Co. and Alphabet Inc. The tech giant is gearing up for the holiday season to challenge Google’s devices. While some consumers and technology analysts were skeptical of Microsoft’s foray into personal-computer hardware after decades of focus on software, the Redmond, Washington-based company has seen its portfolio and market share grow.
Still, Microsoft hasn’t entered the ranks of the top six computer manufacturers, according to recent data from Gartner Inc. The industry is dominated by Lenovo Group Ltd., HP Inc. and Dell Technologies Inc., which hold more than 15%. market each. Meanwhile, Apple, Acer Inc. and Asustek Computer Inc. has a stake ranging from 5% to 10%. In July, Microsoft reported $1.5 billion in quarterly device revenue, its lowest in a year.
So the company is trying to rebuild the momentum and create new market penetration. A significant part of that push is the Surface Pro 8, the latest version of Microsoft’s original tablet-laptop hybrid device. It has new main and graphics processors that the tech giant says will deliver more than a 40% gain in performance and a 74% faster graphics boost.
The screen is also 11% bigger, coming in at 13 inches, and has a higher 120-Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling. The device’s camera system has also been improved, and it is getting Thunderbolt 4 ports for faster data transfer over cables. The Surface Go 3, the company’s low-end tablet, will get faster processor options and an extra hour of battery life.
While the Pro 8 and Go 3 rely on Intel Corp. processors, Microsoft continues to use Arm Limited-designed chips in its Pro X line. That model is getting a cheaper Wi-Fi-only option instead of using cellular connectivity, and is priced at $899. That’s $100 less than the previous version.
The Pro X was criticized for having limited software support, but Microsoft says its new Windows 11 operating system will bring more apps to it. Adobe Inc., Zoom Video Communications Inc. And others are working on providing additional support as well.
Microsoft’s most significant new product is the Surface Laptop Studio, which is replacing the company’s Surface Book. The Surface Book had a tablet-like screen that detached from the laptop base, but the Laptop Studio has a display that can be tilted on or off the tablet when connected to the base.
The laptop-tablet crossover features a 14.4-inch screen and is essentially a laptop version of its Surface Studio desktop – where the screen can tilt down for easy drawing or video viewing. The company says the machine’s processors — Intel’s 11th-generation Core H series and Nvidia Corp’s GeForce RTX graphics — are its fastest speeds ever. The company also touted the system’s speakers with Dolby Atmos technology.
Microsoft’s new Duo phone takes on Samsung’s latest foldable device and will compete with Apple’s iPhone 13 line and Google’s upcoming Pixel 6 phones. The new laptop also surpassed Apple’s next generation models in the market. Bloomberg News reports that the company plans to unveil its biggest improvements to the MacBook Pro in nearly five years over the next several weeks. Apple increasingly began selling iPad Pros earlier this year, while a new entry-level iPad and new iPad mini went on sale this month.
Microsoft’s follow-up to its first phone, the Surface Duo, addresses complaints about two key features: cellular connectivity and cameras. The new model adds 5G support and a dedicated rear-camera system. The first models used 4G and relied on the same cameras for videoconferencing and taking pictures. The phone has two separate screens that open up, unlike the Samsung, which has a coherent display. The new screens open up to 8.3 inches versus 8.1 inches on the original model.
Microsoft’s first Duo phone was mostly a flop and drew criticism for its sluggish processor, buggy software, complicated user interface, and a hefty $1,399 price tag. Microsoft eventually slashed the price to $699 due to poor sales of the phone. However, the new version will cost $1,499.
Microsoft also showed off an updated Surface Slim Pen with improved writing and drawing performance, a new mouse and stickers that can be placed on its devices for better accessibility.
Don’t miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint.
download
Our App Now!!
.