On Tuesday, Microsoft unveiled its latest innovations in personal computing with the introduction of two next-generation Copilot+ PCs, designed to operate artificial intelligence models independently of internet connectivity. These devices, reminiscent of their predecessors, include a Surface Pro convertible tablet featuring a kickstand and an optional keyboard, alongside a more traditional Surface Laptop.
While Microsoft is predominantly recognized for its software prowess, the Surface line serves as a strategic avenue for diversification, showcasing the capabilities of PCs that run on its Windows operating system. The newly launched models come with a more accessible price point compared to last year’s offerings, a crucial adjustment as consumers and businesses brace for rising costs following recent tariff announcements on imported goods.
Pricing and Specifications
The Surface Laptop now starts at 9, reflecting a 0 reduction from the previous year’s model. Meanwhile, the base model of the Surface Pro is priced at 9, which is 0 less than its predecessor. Both devices are powered by an Arm-based Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus chip, featuring eight cores—down from ten in last year’s models. Additionally, screen sizes have been slightly reduced, with the Pro now at 12 inches and the Laptop at 13 inches, compared to last year’s 13 inches and 13.8 inches, respectively.
Despite these changes, Microsoft asserts that the new systems will deliver improved battery life. The Surface Laptop is now capable of supporting up to 16 hours of web browsing, an increase from the previous 13 hours.
Brett Ostrum, Microsoft’s corporate vice president, highlighted in a blog post that the Surface Laptop outperforms Apple’s 2024 MacBook Air, which features an M3 Arm-based chip. This competitive edge comes at a time when Apple has also announced a new MacBook Air equipped with a faster M4 chip.
Enhanced Features and User Experience
Running on Windows 11, the new machines incorporate features such as the Recall function, which remembers previously displayed content, alongside enhanced file search capabilities that leverage AI technology. Users participating in the Windows Insider Program with Snapdragon-based Copilot+ PCs will have access to an AI agent within the Settings app, allowing for simple adjustments through voice commands. Additionally, an upcoming update to the Snipping Tool aims to streamline screenshot editing by focusing on the most relevant information.
However, the market response to Copilot+ PCs has been lukewarm. Analyst Andrew Marok from Raymond James noted a cautious investment appetite for AI PCs, citing uncertainties regarding their value proposition as new business cases and tools continue to evolve. Nevertheless, Microsoft stands to gain from having updated devices available, especially as Windows remains the leading operating system globally. With support for Windows 10 set to conclude in October, Microsoft will cease software updates, security fixes, and assistance for this version. To ease the transition, the company is offering a program for extended security updates for those who are not yet prepared to upgrade.
As users typically upgrade their systems in anticipation of or shortly after the end of support for a Windows operating system, Microsoft is poised to see increased commercial traction. CEO Satya Nadella recently reported a nearly 75% year-over-year increase in Windows 11 commercial deployments, indicating a strong momentum leading into this transition.
Preorders for the new PCs commenced on Tuesday, ahead of their scheduled release on May 20, with color options including platinum, ocean, and violet.