Microsoft Research is showing off a new system highlighting cross-device interaction using multiple spatially aware armatures. The system is known as Air Constellations and consists of device armatures that look like fancy microphone stands with hardware in the base. The video showing off the system shows the ability to move devices with magnetic attachments between armatures easily.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio is the most versatile professional notebook computer I've ever used. After using this device for only a relatively short period of time, it's clear that Microsoft made peace with the idea that they could, and would, create a multi-tiered laptop machine with a transforming body that remained elegant as it performed all tasks. Now, if this machine continues to perform well after we've used it in work mode for a few more weeks, we'll have a real winner on our hands.
Microsoft introduced new versions of mainstream devices that were due and also made some surprise announcements at the latest Surface hardware event. The limelight was stolen by the Surface Pro 8, a 2-in-1 tablet, which brings massive upgrade to the Surface Pro lineup powered by Intel.
Microsoft just unveiled the Surface Duo 2 and, unless Google pulls a surprise next month, we have now seen all the foldable devices for this year. Although there are other players in that niche category, like Royole, Huawei, and Xiaomi, the two biggest names that have surfaced this year are the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and the Surface Duo 2. Unsurprisingly, there will be comparisons between the two, and we examine the most important aspects of these two in order to give that verdict.
Smartphone makers seem to have finally wised up and noticed how important software updates are to consumers these days. Many users have more or less understood by now that updated software is, more often than not, safer software. Of course, committing publicly and actually following through with those promises are two different things, but it's still commendable that Microsoft is promising to support the Surface Duo 2 with software updates for at least three years.
Microsoft just announced the Surface Duo 2, and it is clearly what the first Surface Duo should have been the very first time around. It has hardware made for the year it was launched, pulling very few punches this time. Its launch, however, might have caused some of the owners of the first-gen dual-screen device concern over software support, and Microsoft is putting those fears to rest with the promise of an Android 11 before the year is over.
Today Microsoft revealed prices and release dates for their newest Surface Pro, Go, Duo, and Laptop Studio devices. This includes everything, from the Microsoft Duo 2 with Android to the Surface Laptop Studio - the most extravagant Microsoft Surface laptop-sized device yet produced. Most of these devices will be released on October 4, 2021 - the Surface Duo 2 will arrive on October 20, 2021.
Microsoft has a set of sticky-backed strong and custom-cut materials prepared for a Surface Adaptive Kit. This kit consists of keycap labels, 3-dimensional bump labels, port indicators, and openers. With these elements, users will modify their Surface devices to their hearts' content. This sort of kit should be available from hardware manufacturers across the board - if you make moving parts, 3D labels and add-ons like these should be ready to roll at launch, by default.
Microsoft isn't giving up on dual-screen Android, with the Surface Duo 2 taking a second shot at the clamshell tablet. Now packing a 5G connection, and a more potent Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 chipset, the Surface Duo 2 promises a more usable, flexible upgrade to the original Surface Duo.
Microsoft revealed a brand new stylus today called Surface Slim Pen 2. This device was made specifically for the Surface collection of devices from Microsoft, and works with most Surface devices. Connectivity is provided by Bluetooth 5.0, and buttons include one side button and a top button with eraser functionality.
Most affordable in the Surface range, the new Surface Go 3 gives Microsoft its budget option - and its Windows 11 play for the classroom. Aiming to take on the iPad, the new tablet starts at $399.99, but still supports features like an optional stylus and integrated LTE.
The rumor mill was right: Microsoft had something big planned for its latest notebook, and the Surface Laptop Studio is arguably the biggest departure for the company's Windows PCs that we've seen so far. A 14.4-inch touchscreen notebook, the newest addition to the Surface line has a clever dual hinge that allows the display to pull forward, either to fold flat over the keyboard or to hover in front of it.