Microsoft Introduces Surface Laptop and Surface Pro as “Copilot+ PCs” with Advanced AI Features

Microsoft has announced its new Surface Laptop and Surface Pro models, collectively known as Copilot+ PCs. The laptops under this banner are designed to harness the power of distributed AI, offering advanced AI capabilities, and extended battery life.

The new Surface Laptop and Surface Pro are designed to leverage distributed AI, integrating the capabilities of the cloud and edge computing. This approach ensures reduced latency, enhanced privacy, and better AI performance.

Microsoft Surface Laptop

Key Features:

• Specifications: Powered by the Snapdragon X Series ARM architecture, with 16 GB of RAM and a minimum of 256 GB SSD storage.
• Performance: Over 80% faster than its predecessor, capable of supporting three 4K monitors simultaneously.
• Battery Life: Up to 22 hours of local video playback, nearly double the battery life of previous models.
• Connectivity: Equipped with Wi-Fi 7 and optional 5G support for lightning-fast internet speeds.

With configurations ranging from 16GB of RAM and 256GB SSD storage to 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD (with an exclusive preorder option for 64GB), the Surface Laptop promises power and flexibility.

Equipped with a Qualcomm Adreno GPU, it features a stunning display resolution of either 2304 x 1536 or 2496 x 1664, depending on the size, supporting Dolby Vision IQ and boasting a 120Hz variable refresh rate.

In terms of connectivity, users can expect two USB-C ports, one USB-A 3.1 port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. Additionally, fast-charging capabilities are included, with a 65-watt power supply for the 15-inch model and a 39-watt charger for the 13.8-inch version.

Weighing in at 2.96 pounds for the 13.8-inch model and 3.67 pounds for the 15-inch version, the Surface Laptop offers a sleek design, albeit slightly thicker than the MacBook Air. Microsoft touts an impressive 22 hours of local video playback and claims an 80% performance boost compared to previous models.

Also Read: Apple launches next-gen iPad Air, iPad Pro, and M4 Chip

New Microsoft Surface Pro

Key Features:

• Display: OLED with HDR, offering near-infinite contrast ratios.
• Performance: Powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus / Elite, supports multiple 4K monitors and delivers up to 22 hours of local video playback.
• Camera: Ultrawide front-facing camera and a 4K-capable rear camera for superior video and image quality.
• Flex Keyboard: A revolutionary new keyboard design that can be used attached or detached, with additional carbon fibre layers for stability.

This model, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X processors (Elite and Plus versions), boasts up to a 90% performance increase over its predecessor. It also offers optional 5G connectivity and improved battery life, with up to 14 hours of video playback.

A notable addition is the optional OLED screen, along with Wi-Fi 7 support and a new keyboard attachment called the Surface Pro Flex Keyboard. The device features two USB 4 ports and improved cameras, including an ultrawide quad HD system on the front for AI purposes and a 10-megapixel sensor on the back.

Despite these upgrades, it remains under two pounds and retains the same dimensions as the previous model.

The new Flex Keyboard, which costs $450 and includes a Slim Pen, can be used attached or detached and features larger, more accessible keys and a bigger touchpad.

The new Surface Pro aims to resolve previous performance issues associated with Windows on Arm, promising a seamless experience with the Snapdragon X processors. It integrates AI features extensively, with improvements in File Explorer, notifications, and more, enhancing overall functionality and user experience.

Microsoft Copilot Integration

Microsoft introduces the Surface Laptop as a “Copilot Plus PC,” incorporating a neural processing unit to enable advanced AI capabilities, such as Recall in Windows 11. This feature empowers users to seamlessly search for information across various apps, documents, and folders directly from their device using Copilot.

During the event, Microsoft showcased additional Copilot AI features, including real-time video call translation in multiple languages simultaneously, enhancing communication and collaboration experiences.

The company emphasizes that only Copilot Plus PCs can support these cutting-edge AI functionalities, with promises of early access to Windows AI features compared to their Intel counterparts.

Also Read: Apple M3 vs Snapdragon X Elite: Performance benchmarks

Price and Availability

The new Surface Laptop and Surface Pro are now available for preorder, with shipping scheduled for June 18th.

The Surface Laptop starts at $999.99 for the 13.8-inch model and $1,199.99 for the 15-inch variant, offering a range of configurations with up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage.

For those seeking the highest performance, a preorder-exclusive option with 64GB of RAM is also available.

The Surface Pro begins at $999, which includes an LCD display, the Snapdragon X Plus processor, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage.

Upgrading to the Snapdragon X Elite processor and an OLED screen starts at $1,500, with the top-end configuration, featuring 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage in platinum, priced at $2,100.

Additionally, the new Surface Pro Flex Keyboard, which costs $450 and comes with a Slim Pen, can be purchased to enhance the device’s functionality.