Sustainability, adaptivity and creativity coursed through Microsoft’s spring event

Traditionally regarded as a software company, Microsoft has recently boosted its hardware efforts as it seeks to provide a seamless experience within the Windows ecosystem.

At their September 2021 event, the company unveiled a slew of devices focused on creativity and productivity for all.

Surface Laptop Studio 

An evolution of the Surface Book, the Surface Laptop Studio is a 14.4-inch device that offers three modes: work station, stage, and studio. A new take on versatility it offers you the ability to work the way you want. It also features Quad Omnisonic speakers with immersive Dolby Atmos and comes with built-in storage and charging for a Surface Slim Pen 2 under the keyboard.

Surface Pro 8

Combining the power of a laptop with the flexibility of a tablet, the Surface Pro 8 is a modernised redesign of the popular Pro. With a higher resolution and larger 13-inch touchscreen display it’s perfect for on-the-go creativity, reading and work. Surface Pro 8 also features faster connections with Thunderbolt 4 ports, 11th generation Intel Core processors and advanced cameras and speakers. Its new Type Cover pairs perfectly with the Surface Slim Pen 2, thanks to its built-in storage and wireless charging.

Surface Duo 2

The Surface Duo 2 brings a new design to the Surface Duo line while still focusing on multitasking. It 2 features larger screens, increased durability, a triple-lens camera, 5G, and a spine that displays notifications when the device is closed.

It will be available in two colours: Obsidian and Glacier.

Surface Pro 7+

Previously a commercial offering only, the Surface Pro 7+ is now available for consumers. Microsoft says that it’s ideal for customers looking for a classic Pro design equipped with the latest processors, increased battery life, removable SSD for data retention and LTE.

Surface Go 3

Billed as “the most portable Surface touchscreen 2-in-1, Surface Go 3 uses the same Surface Go design we all know and enhances it with more horsepower. This latest evolution in the Surface Go product line has faster Intel Core processors, all-day battery life, and built-in Microsoft security. One of my favourite features is that it’s optimised for digital pen and touch, which makes this device ideal for everyday tasks.

Surface Pro X

While this may not be a new product, the Surface Pro X will now be available with a WiFi-only option making it even more affordable. As the thinnest, ultra-mobile Surface Pro, this ARM-based device is ideal for anyone looking for flexibility and mobility. It features native app support and X64 emulation.

Microsoft also announced several new accessories, including: 

Surface Slim Pen 2 — with improved haptics and interaction feedback, Surface Slim Pen 2 gives you the feel of pen on paper. It can be stored and charged within compatible Surface devices.

Surface Adaptive Kit — while this tool can be used by anyone, it was created to adapt Surface devices for those with poor vision, blindness, and/or limited strength.

Ocean Plastic Mouse — featuring plastic-free packaging, the mouse is made with 20% recycled ocean plastic. In select regions, Microsoft offers a free mail-in programme to send in your old mouse to be recycled through contracted partners. More information here: aka.ms/MouseRecycle

Microsoft Modern USB-C Headset — certified for Microsoft Teams with high-quality audio and voice, the lightweight headset features meeting controls, and has an easy set-up that helps you stay connected.