Microsoft organized a Livestream launch event to introduce three new Microsoft Surface PCs, as well as several additional upgrades to Windows 11, new AI platforms for creation, and an Audio Dock that serves as a USB-C hub. The Surface Pro 9, which is available in both ARM and Intel models, is the most intriguing item here. Microsoft is consolidating Windows 11’s ARM compatibility with this device, dispelling any reservations you may have about running programmes on Windows 11 for ARM.
The Surface Studio 2 Plus is a redesigned version of the Studio 2 that debuted in 2018. It features upgraded internals, extra Thunderbolt 4 connections, and improved graphics performance.
While, the Surface Laptop 5 receives largely internal changes, and, like the Surface Pro 9, it now comes in a wider range of hues, including Platinum, Sage, Black, and Sandstone. The keyboard on the 13.5-inch model is finished in Alcantara.
Microsoft Surface Pro 9
This year, the Surface Pro 9 receives the most substantial enhancements. The new Surface Pro model will be available in both ARM and Intel-based models, as well as new colour choices and Type Cover keyboards. The Qualcomm SQ3 processor powers the ARM model, which also supports a 5G connection.
Both variations will support Bluetooth 5.1 and Wi-Fi 6E, but the Qualcomm version adds GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and Beidou positioning systems, nanoSIM and eSIM compatibility, Sub-6 GHz/mmWave 5G networks (mmWave is only available in the United States), and LTE support.
The Surface Slim Pen 2 is compatible with a 13-inch PixeSense Flow Display (2880 x 1920 px; 3:2 aspect) with 120Hz refresh rate. The Surface Pen may be stored (and recharged) right between the Surface machine and the Type Cover.
The Surface Pro 9 powered by Intel is available with either a 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U or a Core i7-1255U CPU. Storage choices begin with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage. Meanwhile, the Snapdragon SQ3 version has a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) that enables certain new front camera functions such as Auto framing and Super Resolution improvement, as well as a new noise-reduction technology similar to those created by Discord and Nvidia.
The battery life of the two devices is markedly different. The Intel version has a battery life of up to 15.5 hours, while the 5G Snapdragon edition has a battery life of up to 19 hours. Another distinction is the inclusion of USB-C compatibility. While the 5G model has two Thunderbolt 3.2 connectors, the Intel variant has two Thunderbolt 4 ports.
The Intel variant has 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM. The 5G model is available with either 8GB or 16GB of LPDDR4X RAM. While this device supports up to 512GB of storage, the Intel model supports up to 1TB.
The Surface Pro 9 is priced at $999 and comes standard with an Intel i5, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage. The Intel i7 model starts at $1599, while the 5G model starts at $1299. If you want a Type Cover keyboard, you’ll have to pay $279 to the Surface Pro 9 pricing.
Microsoft Surface Studio 2 Plus
Microsoft last introduced a Surface Studio in 2018, with the Studio 2. A new refurbished model is released, with largely the same outward appearance. Internal hardware provides the majority of the changes.
There’s now a competent 11th Gen Intel i7-11370H CPU, as well as the mobile version of the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 with 6GB of dedicated video memory, 32GB of DDR4 RAM, and 1TB of storage.
The Pixel Sense 28-inch display supports both sRGB and DCI-P3 colour schemes and has a 3:2 aspect ratio with a resolution of 4500 x 3000 px. Also supported are Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos.
All desktop contains three USB-C Thunderbolt 4 connections that can accommodate up to three times the number of external 4K monitors, two USB-A 3.1 ports, a 3.5mm headphone socket, and a gigabit Ethernet connector. A Surface Studio 2 Plus includes a Surface Pen, Surface Keyboard, Surface Mouse, and a power cable. The Surface Studio 2 Plus is only available in one configuration, which costs $4499 and is aimed at professional and corporate consumers.
Surface Laptop 5
The Surface Laptop 5 receives a minor upgrade with new CPUs. The 13.5-inch variant is available with either an Intel Core i5-1235U or a Core i7-1255U CPU. Meanwhile, the 15-inch model is only available with a Core i7-1255U processor. All variants have 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB of LPDDR5x RAM, as well as up to 1TB of storage.
The 13.5-inch model is good for up to 18 hours of “normal device usage,” while the 15-inch model is good for 17 hours. Both screens have a 3:2 aspect ratio and are Gorilla Glass 5 protected (Gorilla Glass 3 if you opt for the Alcantara version of the laptop).
One USB-C Thunderbolt 4 port, one USB-A port, one Surface Connect port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack are included in the Surface Laptops.
The Surface Pro Laptop 5 starts at $999 for the 13.5-inch model, but exclusively in Platinum. The basic model comes with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Meanwhile, the 15-inch Surface Laptop 5 with the same amount of RAM and storage starts at $1299. Microsoft Surface devices will begin delivering on October 25th.
Microsoft Audio Dock Station
The Microsoft Audio Dock is a speaker system that can also function as a USB-C hub for any laptop. A 20W speaker and a 5W subwoofer are included. It contains strong omnidirectional microphones for taking meetings and two large buttons on top of the machine.
The first is a dedicated button for launching Microsoft Teams, while the second is a microphone toggle. Even if you are not a Windows user The Audio Dock will support macOS as well as Teams and other conference apps.
The Audio Dock also contains an HDMI port for connecting to an external display, two USB-C connections, and one USB-A port. On top, there are also dedicated volume and playback controls. The Audio Dock will cost $250 and, like all other Surface gear, will be available on October 25th.
