The Surface Pro 11 has garnered acclaim as an exceptional 2-in-1 device, earning the title of a “stunning achievement” in last year’s review. While the design of the Surface Pro series has proven its worth over time, there remains potential for enhancements in several key areas. Anticipation builds as Microsoft prepares to unveil the next-generation Surface Pro 12 later this year, expected to be powered by Qualcomm’s forthcoming Snapdragon X2 SoC, a notable upgrade in performance comparable to Apple’s M4 chip. With this in mind, several aspects are hoped to be addressed in the upcoming model, slated for release this holiday season, provided external factors such as tariffs do not interfere with the launch.
Uniform bezels
(Image credit: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)
In the realm of tablet design, the iPad Pro stands as the benchmark, and when juxtaposed with the Surface Pro, the latter’s design appears somewhat antiquated. The sleek, uniform bezels framing the remarkable mini LED display of the iPad Pro outshine those of the Surface Pro 11. While it may be unrealistic to expect the Surface Pro 12 to achieve the iPad Pro’s astonishing thinness of 5.1mm, a modest reduction in thickness would be welcomed. Acknowledging the necessity of a fan for cooling, any decrease in size would still be considered a positive development.
Weight is another consideration; the Surface Pro 11 feels cumbersome for tablet use, especially when compared to the lighter Surface Pro X and iPad Pro. For Microsoft to encourage the Surface Pro to function seamlessly as a 2-in-1 device, a lighter design is essential.
5G at launch
(Image credit: Future)
The recurring delay of 5G models following the launch of new devices is a source of frustration for many. This pattern was evident with the Surface Pro 11, which saw its 5G variants released three months after the initial launch. It raises the question of why Microsoft cannot align its production schedules to ensure that 5G models are available at launch, especially when competitors like Apple manage to do so with the iPad Pro.
Intel and Snapdragon for everyone
(Image credit: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)
There is a desire for Microsoft to provide both Snapdragon and Intel options for consumers, as the current trend has relegated Intel to “business only” models, which are often more expensive and less accessible through mainstream retailers. Furthermore, the disparity in features between the two processor types is perplexing. For instance, why do Intel models receive an anti-reflective coating while Snapdragon models do not? The inconsistency extends to software options, as the Intel variant offers features like an 80% battery limiter that are absent in the Snapdragon models. A unified offering for the Surface Pro 12, with all features available across both platforms, would be a welcome change.
Make a red one
(Image credit: Windows Central)
Lastly, there is a nostalgic call for the return of vibrant colors, particularly red. The Surface Laptop 2 in Burgundy remains a cherished design, and a similar hue for the Surface Pro 12 would be a delightful addition to the lineup. As tech companies increasingly gravitate towards muted tones, the reintroduction of bold colors could invigorate the market and appeal to consumers seeking a personal touch in their devices.
