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Microsoft Updates Smaller Surface Pro and Laptop with Snapdragon X2 Plus Chips
Key points
- Microsoft updated 12-inch Surface Pro and 13-inch Surface Laptop.
- New models feature Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Plus chips.
- Devices launch October 13 with higher starting prices.
- Minimum 16GB RAM, 25% brighter displays, and optional 5G for Surface Pro.
- Performance improvements include faster graphics and AI inferencing.
New Chips for Smaller Surface Devices
Microsoft has announced updates to its smaller Surface Pro 12-inch and Surface Laptop 13-inch devices. Both models will now incorporate Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 Plus chips, succeeding the previous generation's Snapdragon X Plus processors. These refreshed devices are scheduled to launch on October 13.
Performance and Efficiency Improvements
The integration of the Snapdragon X2 Plus chips brings several performance enhancements. Microsoft claims the new systems are 17% faster in Microsoft Office workloads and offer more than 60% faster graphics. Battery efficiency is also expected to improve by up to 18%, with the 12-inch Surface Pro specifically noted to have a 30% more efficient battery. The new processor includes an 80 TOPS NPU, which provides up to 95% faster AI inferencing compared to previous Snapdragon X Plus processors.
Design and Display Updates
While the overall design of both the Surface Pro 12-inch and Surface Laptop 13-inch remains consistent with their predecessors, there are notable display improvements. Both systems will feature 25% brighter displays. Additionally, a new black color option will be available for both devices. The Surface Pro 12-inch will also introduce Ink Canvas, a new sketching and annotating application preinstalled on Windows 11.
Pricing and Configuration Changes
The new Surface devices will see an increase in their starting prices. The 12-inch Surface Pro will start at $1,149.99, up from its previous $799.99. The 13-inch Surface Laptop will be priced starting at $1,199.99, an increase from its original $899.99. A significant change in configuration is the removal of the 8GB RAM option; both devices will now launch with a minimum of 16GB of RAM, configurable up to 24GB. Storage options include 256GB or 512GB.
Connectivity and Availability
The 12-inch Surface Pro will offer an optional 5G connectivity variant, which Microsoft states was a highly requested addition, though this option will be available only in enterprise versions of the device. Both the Surface Pro 12-inch and Surface Laptop 13-inch will be available for purchase starting October 13.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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How outlets covered it
Microsoft is updating its smaller 12-inch Surface Pro and 13-inch Surface Laptop models with Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Plus processors, with availability starting October 13. The new models feature brighter displays, increased base RAM, and an optional 5G variant for the Surface Pro, alongside price increases.
Microsoft updated its 12-inch Surface Pro and 13-inch Surface Laptop with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 Plus chips, retaining the same design but offering improved battery life and performance. These devices will launch on October 13th with higher starting prices and a minimum of 16GB RAM.
Microsoft updated its Surface Pro 12 and Surface Laptop 13 models, incorporating the new Snapdragon X2 Plus chips. These devices aim to improve performance, graphics, and AI capabilities compared to their predecessors, addressing previous speed concerns for users prioritizing portability.
Microsoft is updating its 13-inch Surface Laptop and 12-inch Surface Pro with the new Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Plus processor, which includes an 80 TOPS NPU. These updates bring performance improvements and new features, but also increase the starting prices for both devices.