Microsoft Unveils New Surface Devices with AI Focus and Qualcomm Chips

Microsoft's new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop are lighter and cheaper (and I love the new colors)

The 2025 Surface Pro and Surface Laptop double down on portability and battery life with physical redesigns, new colors (that aren't pastel), and competitive prices. Microsoft just announced its refreshed 2025 Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, and both have new some design elements. We've got new colors, a new keyboard for the Surface Pro, and refined identities as lightweight, ultraportables with long-lasting batteries. The tech giant teased the release of the new Surface devices last week on X, just weeks before Microsoft Build, its annual developer conference. Now, we have confirmation of a 13-inch Surface Laptop and new, smaller 12-inch Surface Pro with an 8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus processor and 16GB of RAM in both. Both devices are available on May 20, 2025. Also: Microsoft still has a massive Windows 10 problem - and there's no easy way out The starting configurations show both devices with the same storage options as well: 256GB or 512GB universal flash storage (UFS), with price points that are just as noteworthy -- the 13-inch Surface Laptop will start at $899 and the 12-inch Surface Pro starts at $799 -- competitive devices in an uncertain market. The duo offers fewer configurations than last year's models, with Microsoft betting consumers will respond to a smaller, streamlined catalog and refreshed form factors supported by new AI-powered features in Windows 11. Let's take a closer look. The new 12-inch Surface Pro is smaller and lighter, weighing just 1.5 pounds (without the keyboard) and measuring 10.8 inches long by 7.47 inches tall. It's also thinner, at 0.30 inches thick -- just 0.10 inches thicker than Apple's iPad Pro 11. The design intentionally echoes the aforementioned Apple device. With slightly rounder edges, thin bezels, and a redesigned, sleeker kickstand, it looks like a premium tablet, but I'm happy to see this year's device look a bit more distinct at the same time. Also: I tested the cheapest Surface Pro 11 model: 3 main takeaways as a Windows expert The redesigned 12-inch Surface Pro keyboard forgoes last year's fabric aesthetic for a matte plastic look in one of three colorways: Violet, Ocean, or Slate. The Violet and Ocean are unique, a refreshing break from the pastels, rose golds, and neutrals that dominate the market. The keyboard also folds back completely flat against the Surface Pro while staying magnetically connected, allowing the user to use it as a tablet while the keyboard is still attached. That's a nice-quality-of-life change that supports the device's flexibility. Microsoft also says the stylus is more usable, as it now magnetically snaps to the back of the tablet, where it charges wirelessly. Regarding the display, Microsoft skipped the OLED this year, instead going with a 12-inch PixelSense LCD display at 220PPI and a variable 90Hz refresh rate. The slightly more modest display, no doubt, aims to support the battery, with Microsoft promising up to 16 hours of video playback and 12 hours of use. For other hardware, the 2025 Surface Pro features a full HD front-facing Surface Studio webcam and a 10MP Ultra HD rear-facing camera. The 13-inch Surface Laptop continues Microsoft's theme of portability and competitive pricing in the thinnest and lightest Surface Laptop yet, weighing just 2.7 pounds and 0.61 inches thick. The Surface is intended to be smaller than a standard notebook, with an anodized aluminum chassis in three colorways: Violet, Ocean, and Platinum. Under the hood, the device runs an 8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus processor with 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 512GB of removable UFS storage. Battery life is the marquee feature here, as Microsoft says the Surface Laptop offers up to 23 hours of video playback and 16 hours of active web browsing -- the most battery life of any Surface to date. Also: The Surface Laptop is still a solid MacBook Air alternative - and it's $500 off right now Regarding performance, the company says the Surface is 50% faster than last year's model, outpacing the MacBook Air M3. The 13-inch HD touchscreen offers a 1920 x 1280 resolution and 178PPI, capping out at a 60Hz refresh rate and 400 nits of brightness with support for up to two 4K monitors at 60Hz. The Snapdragon X Plus chip supports up to 45 TOPS, positioning it as an accessible gateway to new AI-powered features in Windows 11. With support for Windows 10 ending this year, Microsoft is focused on retaining customers who may have wandering eyes for a new Mac by showing off a slew of AI-powered features in Windows. The hardware on the Surface devices is optimized for on-device AI with Windows Copilot and the new features Microsoft wants to show off: Recall, Click to Do, Live Captions, Relight in Photos, and improved Windows search. The new AI-powered Windows search aims to allow users to use their own words to search images, documents, and files, hopefully simplifying the infamously hit-or-miss search function. This is one thing I'll be waiting to see live in action at Microsoft Build. Also: Microsoft is testing a free desktop version of Office - but there's a catch Another feature Microsoft is showing off is the new AI-powered photo retouching, which offers pro-grade lighting effects and visual editing capabilities. These AI-driven features work locally on the device, out of the Photos app. The new devices and their competitive price points come at an opportune time for Microsoft, which is betting on a more accessible, streamlined product line in the wake of economic uncertainty, particularly with rising costs associated with electronics like laptops. I'm looking forward to testing the Surface devices. Stay tuned for our full-length reviews in the days to come.

Microsoft's new Surface devices just got major redesigns - and I'm tempted to switch

The 2025 Surface Pro and Surface Laptop double down on portability and battery life with physical redesigns, new colors, and competitive prices. Microsoft just announced its refreshed 2025 Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, and both have new some design elements. We've got new colors, a new keyboard for the Surface Pro, and refined identities as lightweight, ultraportables with long-lasting batteries. The tech giant teased the release of the new Surface devices last week on X, just weeks before Microsoft Build, its annual developer conference. Now, we have confirmation of a 13-inch Surface Laptop and new, smaller 12-inch Surface Pro with an 8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus processor and 16GB of RAM in both. Both devices are available on May 20, 2025. Also: Microsoft still has a massive Windows 10 problem - and there's no easy way out The starting configurations show both devices with the same storage options as well: 256GB or 512GB universal flash storage (UFS), with price points that are just as noteworthy -- the 13-inch Surface Laptop will start at $899 and the 12-inch Surface Pro starts at $799 -- competitive devices in an uncertain market. The new Surface devices will be sold alongside last year's models, which are still available: the 13.8-inch and 15-inch Surface Laptop, and the 13-inch Surface Pro. Microsoft is betting consumers will respond to this year's refreshed form factors supported by new AI-powered features in Windows 11. Let's take a closer look. The new 12-inch Surface Pro is smaller and lighter, weighing just 1.5 pounds (without the keyboard) and measuring 10.8 inches long by 7.47 inches tall. It's also thinner, at 0.30 inches thick -- just 0.10 inches thicker than Apple's iPad Pro 11. The design intentionally echoes the aforementioned Apple device. With slightly rounder edges, thin bezels, and a redesigned, sleeker kickstand, it looks like a premium tablet, but I'm happy to see this year's device look a bit more distinct at the same time. Also: I tested the cheapest Surface Pro 11 model: 3 main takeaways as a Windows expert The redesigned 12-inch Surface Pro keyboard forgoes last year's fabric aesthetic for a matte plastic look in one of three colorways: Violet, Ocean, or Slate. The Violet and Ocean are unique, a refreshing break from the pastels, rose golds, and neutrals that dominate the market. The keyboard also folds back completely flat against the Surface Pro while staying magnetically connected, allowing the user to use it as a tablet while the keyboard is still attached. That's a nice-quality-of-life change that supports the device's flexibility. Microsoft also says the stylus is more usable, as it now magnetically snaps to the back of the tablet, where it charges wirelessly. Regarding the display, Microsoft skipped the OLED this year, instead going with a 12-inch PixelSense LCD display at 220PPI and a variable 90Hz refresh rate. The slightly more modest display, no doubt, aims to support the battery, with Microsoft promising up to 16 hours of video playback and 12 hours of use. For other hardware, the 2025 Surface Pro features a full HD front-facing Surface Studio webcam and a 10MP Ultra HD rear-facing camera. The 13-inch Surface Laptop continues Microsoft's theme of portability and competitive pricing in the thinnest and lightest Surface Laptop yet, weighing just 2.7 pounds and 0.61 inches thick. The Surface is intended to be smaller than a standard notebook, with an anodized aluminum chassis in three colorways: Violet, Ocean, and Platinum. Under the hood, the device runs an 8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus processor with 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 512GB of removable UFS storage. Battery life is the marquee feature here, as Microsoft says the Surface Laptop offers up to 23 hours of video playback and 16 hours of active web browsing -- the most battery life of any Surface to date. Also: The Surface Laptop is still a solid MacBook Air alternative - and it's $500 off right now Regarding performance, the company says the Surface is 50% faster than last year's model, outpacing the MacBook Air M3. The 13-inch HD touchscreen offers a 1920 x 1280 resolution and 178PPI, capping out at a 60Hz refresh rate and 400 nits of brightness with support for up to two 4K monitors at 60Hz. The Snapdragon X Plus chip supports up to 45 TOPS, positioning it as an accessible gateway to new AI-powered features in Windows 11. With support for Windows 10 ending this year, Microsoft is focused on retaining customers who may have wandering eyes for a new Mac by showing off a slew of AI-powered features in Windows. The hardware on the Surface devices is optimized for on-device AI with Windows Copilot and the new features Microsoft wants to show off: Recall, Click to Do, Live Captions, Relight in Photos, and improved Windows search. The new AI-powered Windows search aims to allow users to use their own words to search images, documents, and files, hopefully simplifying the infamously hit-or-miss search function. This is one thing I'll be waiting to see live in action at Microsoft Build. Also: Microsoft is testing a free desktop version of Office - but there's a catch Another feature Microsoft is showing off is the new AI-powered photo retouching, which offers pro-grade lighting effects and visual editing capabilities. These AI-driven features work locally on the device, out of the Photos app. The new devices and their competitive price points come at an opportune time for Microsoft, which is betting on a more accessible, streamlined product line in the wake of economic uncertainty, particularly with rising costs associated with electronics like laptops. I'm looking forward to testing the Surface devices. Stay tuned for our full-length reviews in the days to come.

Microsoft announces colorful new 12-inch Surface Pro and 13-inch Surface Laptop with Snapdragon X Plus

Microsoft has new flagship AI PCs. The company today announced a 13-inch Surface Laptop and a 12-inch Surface Pro with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Plus 8-core processors. These new Copilot+ PCs will be available starting May 20, while business versions will ship on July 22. Both systems share similar specs, including 16GB of RAM and up to 512GB of SSD storage, though the Pro has a faster, higher-resolution display than the Laptop and also comes with Windows Hello support in the webcam, which the laptop relegates to a fingerprint reader. The Surface Pro 11th Edition and Surface Laptop 7th Edition, which debuted last year with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite and Snapdragon X Plus (10 Core) processors, each starting at $799.99 as of this writing. Unless the prices for those more powerful models go up, potential buyers may want to consider one of those more powerful systems if they don't care about having the thinnest, lightest designs. It's possible that these Snapdragon X Plus (8 Core) models are priced higher due to tariffs, but Microsoft hasn't commented. This new Surface Pro is a smaller size than the existing 13-inch device and offers a fanless design. Microsoft claims it's the "thinnest and lightest Copilot+ PC yet," and it seems to fill in the gap left by the Surface Go (the Surface Go 4 was only released for businesses). This tablet is 1.5 pounds before adding the optional 0.27-pound keyboard. That keyboard, which will be a must-have accessory for many, will start at $149. The $129 Surface Slim pen is also sold separately. Microsoft says that the new keyboard lies flat "for a grounded and quiet typing experience," and that it folds back flat against the Surface Pro for when you want to write or draw. The new Pro will come in three colors: the default platinum seen on so many Surface devices, a bold new violet, and a dark, blue-green color called "ocean." Perhaps the other biggest physical distinction is that this system won't have Microsoft's proprietary Surface Connect port, instead relying entirely on USB Type-C for charging. In fact, the two USB Type-C 3.2 ports are the only I/O on the entire system. The system will come with a USB Type-C cable for charging, but it won't include a wall charger in the box. It's possible this is a result of European Union rulings requiring USB-C charging on tablets, meaning that a charger isn't strictly required, like with phones. You'll need at least a 45W charger in order to fast charge the new Surface Pro. The Surface Pro has two cameras: a 1080p webcam with support for Windows Hello facial recognition, and a 10MP rear shooter for people who like to take pictures with tablets. The Surface Pro starts at $799 in platinum with the Snapdragon X Plus (8 core), 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. For $899, you bump up to 512GB of storage and can also get the violent or ocean color options. The new Surface Laptop, which Microsoft claims is the thinnest and lightest Surface Laptop to date, is a more straightforward update. It's smaller than the existing Surface Laptop, which comes in 13.8-inch and 15-inch screen sizes. Like the Surface Pro, the new Laptop cuts the Surface Connect port and charges over USB-C. The Surface Laptop has a pair of USB-C 3.2 ports, a USB-A 3.1 port, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack. Unlike the tablet, the Surface Laptop will come with a 45W USB-C wall charger in the box (though you need a 60W charger for fast charging). The laptop's anodized aluminum casing will come in the same violet, ocean, and platinum colorways as the new Surface Pro. The Surface Laptop has a 1080p webcam like the Pro, but it doesn't support facial recognition. Instead, the Laptop has a fingerprint reader in the power button, similar to the MacBook Air. Microsoft claims that the Surface Laptop and its Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus (8 core) processor is "50% faster than Surface Laptop 5 and even outpaces the MacBook Air M3." While that might be what some users are upgrading from, the Surface Laptop 5 launched in 2022 with 12th Gen Intel processors, while the MacBook Air is now on its next iteration with the M4 chip. Unlike the Surface Pro, Microsoft is using a fan here for improved sustained performance. Like the Surface Pro, the $899 base model has the 8-core Snapdragon X Plus, 16GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and only comes in platinum. The $999 configuration that jumps to 512GB of storage also comes in violet or ocean. Alongside the new Surfaces, Microsoft is announcing a series of new Copilot+ features that will show up in Windows Insider builds over the next month. These include an update to settings to let you use natural language to search for and change settings on your PC. There will also be a new AI-based Snipping Tool to perfectly crop screenshots, a sticker generator in Paint for chats or documents, and more updates to Narrator for better image descriptions. A tool in photos called Relight will let you adjust light sources in photos. This will debut on Snapdragon X Series PCs and come to AMD and Intel later on. Additionally, there will be a redesigned Start Menu that adds a sidebar showing recent activity from your phone, as well as AI actions in File Explorer. Microsoft is continuing to push the Copilot+ as the future of the PC, especially with support for Windows 10 ending on Oct. 14, 2025. The company has been slowly expanding Copilot+ features that run on the NPU, including launching Recall to find what you previously looked for and an improved Windows Search. AI PCs haven't been a huge boon for upgrades, and despite being called Copilot+, Microsoft's Copilot chatbot doesn't actually run on device. But the clock running out on Windows 10 may drive more sales as potential buyers look for the latest updates, features, and security patches.

In Its Newest Surfaces, Microsoft Is Still Sweet on Snapdragon X. But Why?

If you're after laptop buying advice, I'm your man. From PC reviews to Starlink testing, I've got more than a decade of experience reviewing PCs and technology products. I got my start with PCMag but have also written for Tom's Guide and LaptopMag.com, and several other tech outlets. With a focus on personal computing (Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS), Starlink satellite internet, and generative AI productivity tools, I'm a professional tech nerd and a power user through and through. Microsoft has two new Surface products for 2025, a new pair of Copilot+ PCs with the latest AI features and cool new colors. However, I was surprised to see that Microsoft again went exclusively with Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors in these new machines. Sure, back in January, new enterprise Surface models came out, dubbed Surface for Business, with Intel Core Ultra 200V ("Lunar Lake") silicon. But if you were waiting for an Intel version of the regular Surface Laptop or Surface Pro tablet, you're out of luck. Despite lacking the x86 architecture that Windows was built on -- and that Qualcomm rivals AMD and Intel soldier on with -- Snapdragon is Microsoft's chip of choice once again in its consumer-minded Surfaces. Last year, I almost dismissed the move to Snapdragon X chips as an experiment Microsoft might try once and support with some aggressive PR. Instead, I've seen more Qualcomm-powered systems from more PC makers in the last year than I have in the rest of my decade-plus career of writing about laptops. Before I address this Microsoft/Qualcomm double-down, I'll share what I know about these new-for-2025 Qualcomm-based Surface devices so far. Microsoft's New Surface Laptop and Surface Tablet: Smaller, Slimmer, and Snappier Microsoft has two new Surface products on deck: a slimmer-than-before 13-inch Surface Laptop, and a smaller-screen 12-inch Surface Pro tablet. The fresh pair of Copilot+ PCs will launch later in May. The new Surface Laptop is the thinnest and lightest laptop in Microsoft's lineup, with a slim anodized-aluminum chassis available in three colors: Ocean (blue), Violet, and Platinum (silver). This Copilot+ PC houses a Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus processor with a neural processing unit (NPU) rated at 45 trillion operations per second, or TOPS. (TOPS is the current leading measurement of AI processing ability.) Microsoft's new 13-inch design is more compact than last year's 13-inch Surface Laptop, measuring just 0.61 inch thick and weighing 2.7 pounds to the outgoing model's 0.69-inch thickness and 2.96 pounds. It should run for longer on a charge, too, with Microsoft claiming the battery will last for 23 hours of video playback and up to 16 hours during web browsing -- three more hours than last time. The 12-inch Surface Pro tablet also brings a more compact design to shoppers, in the form of a 2-in-1 detachable that weighs just 1.5 pounds and measures 0.3 inch thick. It's notably smaller than last year's Microsoft Surface Pro, a 13-incher. When paired with an optional Surface Pro 12-Inch Keyboard (as ever, sold separately), it becomes a capable laptop replacement, complete with a Windows Copilot key. If you're upgrading from an older Surface Pro model, of course, you'll have no choice but to buy one of these new keyboards to suit the new size. The Surface Pro does work with the existing Surface Slim Pen for writing and drawing on the tablet. You can, as before, store and wirelessly charge the pen on the back of the tablet when you're not using it. Like the new Surface Laptop, the 12-inch Surface Pro tablet has a Snapdragon X Plus processor with a 45 TOPS NPU. Naturally, the Surface Pro tablet and optional accessories come in a trio of colors: Slate (a gray), Ocean, and Violet. The new 12-inch Surface Pro tablet and 13-inch Surface Laptop will begin selling on May 20, priced at $799 for the Surface Pro (the tablet only, no keyboard) and $899 for the laptop. Both are designated as Copilot+ PCs and will feature Windows with the latest Copilot features, such as Recall, Click to Do, and Copilot Vision. However, you might be wondering, "Why this loyalty to Qualcomm chips?" Why Stick With Qualcomm Again? Microsoft built Windows primarily to run on processors using the x86 architecture and instruction set, like Intel's and AMD's. Why this push for Windows on Arm's x64 architecture and instruction set in Microsoft's flagship products? When I asked Microsoft about this last year, the answer was that Qualcomm was the first chip partner to provide an NPU that delivered the 40-plus TOPS required by Microsoft to support Copilot+ PC features. That was true a year ago, but Snapdragon X is no longer alone in that club. More than a few Copilot+ systems powered by Intel's Core Ultra 200V-series and AMD's Ryzen AI 300-series processors have crossed our test benches, and the flood is coming. Turbocharged NPUs are no longer the exception: They're the rule in most new chips. But that still leaves us wondering why we're seeing Qualcomm Surface products for 2025. One answer is power efficiency. Based on our testing, Snapdragon X processors are often more energy efficient than competing x86 chips. Qualcomm-based systems deliver some of the longest battery life we've seen in various form factors. Snapdragon does that while driving competitive performance, a testament to how well Windows on Arm has matured. What was once a curiosity for those passionate about alternatives to Intel's market dominance has become a more mainstream option in today's market. Qualcomm has made inroads with several other laptop brands, notably Asus, Dell, HP, and Lenovo. (Maybe mainstream-ish is a better way to say it, since we haven't seen actual numbers about Qualcomm's market share in current laptops.) And none of this changes the fact that Qualcomm hardware still has drawbacks on Windows 11. Software compatibility is the big one. Many apps work on Arm's x64 architecture now, thanks to Microsoft's Prism emulator and a growing amount of native app development work on Arm. But you'll still run into issues here and there with simple tasks like printing or running legacy software. That's a huge problem for businesses that rely on niche software that's still essential in their industry, such as software for legal, medical, or industrial manufacturing use. (This is likely why Microsoft still produces Intel-based Surface products for businesses.) Anyone needing serious gaming graphics will skip Arm-based systems, too, since no Snapdragon system to date has discrete graphics. Also, Arm CPUs in desktops are exceedingly rare. Qualcomm has found its way into a few mini PCs, like the Lenovo ThinkCentre Neo 50q, but that's a far cry from anything gamers will be building. Crouching Microsoft, Hidden Snapdragon The bigger question may not be around battery life, app compatibility, or even pure performance. Instead, it might be something more mundane but far more serious to Microsoft: contracts and strategic partnerships. During Microsoft's Build 2023 conference, the software giant and Qualcomm announced a collaboration to "scale AI capabilities and bring best-in-class AI experiences to users across consumer, enterprise, and industrial devices." While the specifics of any contract between the two aren't public, the agreement led to foundational new hardware and software for the nascent AI PC category just a year later. The level of collaboration needed for this latest Windows on Arm push suggests an agreement that includes supporting and building out the Arm ecosystem, which has certainly happened in the past year. Because those ecosystems need time to take root and grow, it's likely a multi-year endeavor. It's also possible that the broad Qualcomm support we've seen from other laptop makers since last year resulted from Microsoft's influence. Microsoft holds the keys to Windows. With deep ties to manufacturers, Microsoft can easily suggest that PC makers pick up a favored platform. These comments are speculation, but Qualcomm's surge in PC prominence can't be down entirely to reasonably good performance numbers and upticks in battery life. Established Intel competitor AMD still lags in adoption despite its often superior-performing Ryzen AI 300 chips. This discrepancy is in part because PC makers know Intel's larger brand recognition evinces loyalty from many shoppers, faster alternatives be damned. Moving away from that would probably require some incentives, such as favorable deals, discounts, and licensing agreements. The Takeaway: Chip Confusion, Yes, But Also Competition and Choice All of this talk about processor architecture, branding, and partnerships might sound confusing. But this cloud has a silver lining: more competition. Intel's PC-platform dominance is waning now more than ever. The cracks began to show when Apple ditched Intel for its own in-house chip designs based on Arm technology. With AMD powering up and Qualcomm rising, Intel has more challengers than ever, too. Even Nvidia is talking about getting into the CPU game with Arm-based chips of its own. These developments all come at a significant inflection point: the rise of the AI PC. Intel has been a prominent name in all of it, but AMD and Qualcomm are delivering the TOPS in that vertical, too. And it's part of a trend for Intel. The company's revenue has been dipping for years. The CEO spot has changed so often it looks like a well-paid game of musical chairs. And the AI revolution has opened up opportunities for competitors to make huge gains. That's tough news for Intel investors, but fantastic news for PC shoppers, because competition drives two significant long-term effects: lower prices, and increased innovation. More choices mean lower prices, because the different companies offering CPUs and systems are all trying to appeal to the biggest number of purchasers, and the biggest subset of people in any market are the ones who want to save a buck. Manufacturers know this and price accordingly. (Obviously, the economics of technology are a little more complex than that, but the principle from basic economics still holds.) The other benefit is innovation. When multiple players try to outdo the competition with new features, a powerful, consistent push for developing new technologies emerges. This hot period sees PC makers repurposing and refining existing tech, finding ways to improve it. AI is the latest example of this, and it's rapidly becoming the driving force behind the entire tech industry. That all translates into more options for consumers to choose from. We're already seeing AI PCs and features bloom, and a growing number of chipmakers powering it all. The coming years should bring more diverse technology and competitive pricing, which is a win-win. All that remains to be seen is whether Qualcomm and Arm will come out ahead, and by how far, and how well Intel and AMD -- and their x86 empires -- weather the storm.

Microsoft Debuts Lower-End Surface Devices to Push AI Tools

Microsoft Corp. is rolling out two lower-end versions of its main Surface devices in a bid to drum up interest in computers that can take advantage of the company's artificial intelligence tools and better compete with Apple Inc.'s range of slim devices. The 13-inch Surface Laptop and 12-inch Surface Pro two-in-one tablet go on sale on Tuesday and will ship to consumers in the US and select markets starting May 20. Both are thinner, lighter and boast longer battery life than their predecessors. They also lack the higher-end processors and storage options of previous Surface devices but sell for the same or higher prices.

Microsoft launches lower-priced AI laptops with Qualcomm chips

SAN FRANCISCO, May 6 (Reuters) - Microsoft (MSFT.O), opens new tab on Tuesday said it will release a new laptop and tablet with chips from Qualcomm at lower prices than before, aiming to get new AI features to a broader set of customers. The newest Surface 13-inch laptop and Surface Pro 12-inch tablet will go on sale on May 20, with the laptop starting at $899 and the tablet starting at $799. Both will feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Plus chips, and they will be priced slightly between competing products from Apple such as its MacBook Air, which starts at $999 and its iPads, where Air Pro models start at $649 and $999. But Microsoft's new offerings will be its lowest-priced yet with support for what it calls "Copilot+" features that it introduced last year. That bundle of features includes things like the ability to ask how to change the computer's settings as a natural language question rather than sifting through settings menus or the ability to ask for an AI-generated first draft of a word document. Microsoft has set performance computing chip requirements for the new Copilot+ label, which has meant that most of those AI features are only available on machines that cost $1,000 or more. Pavan Davuluri, corporate vice president of Windows and Devices at Microsoft, said the new Surface devices are aimed at getting those features to a broader set of users, especially students or young professionals at the start of their careers. "We think these new Surface Pro and laptops are for a set of customers for whom affordability is going to be important," Davuluri told reporters during a press briefing on April 28. Reporting by Stephen Nellis in San Francisco Editing by Shri Navaratnam Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles., opens new tab Suggested Topics:Business

Microsoft introduces Surface PCs that run AI models and cost less than earlier versions

From left, Microsoft's 2025 Surface Pro with optional keyboard attached and the company's 2025 Surface Laptop. Microsoft on Tuesday introduced two next-generation Copilot+ PCs that can run artificial intelligence models without using the internet. The devices will look familiar to users of earlier versions. One is a Surface Pro convertible tablet with a kickstand and a slot for an optional keyboard. The other is the more traditional Surface Laptop. While Microsoft is mainly known for its software and doesn't rank among the top sellers of computers, the Surface line helps the company diversify and show off the capabilities of a PC that runs its Windows operating system. The new models are less expensive than the ones Microsoft introduced last year, when it also unveiled the Copilot+ PC standard, powered by what the company calls a neural processing unit. The lower price is important as consumers and businesses prepare to deal with increasing costs following President Donald Trump's announcement last month of sweeping tariffs on goods imported into the U.S. Microsoft's new Surface Laptop starts at $899, $100 lower than last year's edition. The latest base-model Surface Pro costs $799, $200 less than its predecessor. Each contains an Arm-based Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus chip with eight cores instead of 10 last year. Screen sizes are smaller, too, with 12 inches for the Pro and 13 inches for the Laptop. That compares with the Pro's 13 inches and the Laptop's 13.8 inches last year. But Microsoft claims the new systems will have longer battery life. The Surface Laptop can accommodate 16 hours of web browsing, up from 13 hours in 2024. Brett Ostrum, Microsoft corporate vice president, said in a blog post that the Surface Laptop outperforms Apple's 2024 MacBook Air containing an M3 Arm-based chip. In March, Apple announced a MacBook Air with a faster M4 chip.

Microsoft's new Surface Laptop and Pro have smaller screens, built-in AI, and USB-C charging

Microsoft announced new 13-inch Surface Laptop and 12-inch Surface Pro starting at $899 and $799, respectively, featuring smaller screens and built-in AI tools that run locally as part of its Copilot+ PC initiative. Both devices now charge via USB-C and no longer include a power brick, aligning with the EU's push to reduce electronic waste and marking a move away from Microsoft's proprietary connector. Microsoft hopes that faster performance, longer battery life, and on-device AI will get more users to upgrade -- especially as support for Windows 10 ends later this year. Alongside the new hardware, the company unveiled a Settings agent that lets users adjust system preferences by describing what they want in plain language. It's an expansion of Microsoft's AI-powered Copilot+ PC tools, which include the flagship Recall feature that lets users search and scroll through past activity. In a media briefing in advance of the news, Microsoft executives said the new Surface Laptop is faster than Apple's MacBook Air M3 at handling tasks that use multiple apps or processes at once -- part of a broader effort by Microsoft to compete more directly with Apple's popular laptops. Releasing its quarterly earnings last week, Microsoft said commercial deployments of Windows 11 increased nearly 75% year-over-year, driven in part by the approaching end-of-support for Windows 10. Microsoft's Windows device sales rose 3% from last year, amid higher levels of inventory due to uncertainty about tariffs. During the Surface media briefing, Microsoft executives were asked directly if tariffs were affecting the pricing of the Surface devices. They didn't give a clear yes or no, describing the tariff issue as a "moving target."

Microsoft launches 12-inch Surface Pro, 13-inch Surface Laptop with Snapdragon X Plus

Microsoft's Surface lineup is getting a boost from its proprietary AI suite, along with some more affordable hardware. Surface PCs have long been good options for their size-to-power ratio, and a new set wants to take that a step further with NPUs built for more Copilot+ at a more reasonable price in the 2025 Microsoft Surface Laptop and Surface Pro. Microsoft's Copilot+ lineup represents PCs that equip powerful NPUs capable of running more advanced versions of the company's AI model. For those who build Windows PCs, Copilot is the standard because powerful NPUs aren't as readily available for desktops, at least not right now. The company announced that it's building on the Surface PC lineup with two new options: the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop. These 2025 variants come in a 12-inch tablet form factor and a 13-inch laptop, following the same guidelines Microsoft has laid out for itself for years. Both PCs run on the Snapdragon X Plus SoC with 6GB of RAM, incorporating the Hexagon NPU. That's essentially what Microsoft has put the burden of Copilot+ on, with all of the features it plans to bring in 2025. These new entries come in as slightly cheaper options than what was announced last year. That means the Microsoft Surface Pro with Snapdragon X Plus comes in at $799 and up, while the Surface Laptop will start at only $899. This is a step below the existing Snapdragon X Elite models. The Surface Laptop comes in a small package, but it still packs a punch. According to Microsoft, this Copilot+ Surface Laptop is 50% faster than the Surface Laptop 5, and it performs better than the MacBook Air M3. The last statistic is not accompanied by metrics. The new laptop is expected to have enough power to handle 23 hours of video playback and 16 hours of active browsing. All this is done on the 13-inch 1920 x 1280 touchscreen, which has a very humble refresh rate of up to 60Hz. These devices clearly put an emphasis on battery life at this price point. It's no surprise to see the Surface Laptop only carries a couple of USB Type-C ports for charging and data transfer, while a USB 3.1 Type-A port is available for further connection. The laptop does support fast charging with a 60W minimum requirement. The Microsoft Surface Pro, on the other hand, takes on a tablet-like form and delivers the same processor and general specs as the Surface Laptop. That includes the same NPU and focus on Copilot+, powered by a battery that can handle a smaller 16 hours of video and 12 hours of active browsing. The LCD touchscreen display is 2196 x 1464 and can reach up to 90Hz, which is interesting for a device that should be less capable. The Surface Pro looks to also have the same port layout as the bigger laptop. If you're keen on using the Surface Pro as a laptop, you'll need to use the compatible keyboard. It doesn't look like it's included in the box, so that's something to be aware of. With both of these devices, Microsoft's Copilot+ is bringing a few new functions to the PC. That includes Recall, which is a Pixel Screenshots-like tool that allows the AI model to retain information from your screen and history. This is a divisive feature, so it'll be an opt-in function for the time being. Microsoft is also integrating a feature that allows natural language search for documents and settings. Users will be able to describe a document or image as they would to another person, and Windows will search for that item according to the parameters laid out. The Microsoft Surface laptop series has proven to be a great option in recent years. These two new entries look to bring a lot of the same capabilities of previous models, only at a more approachable price point.

Microsoft reveals 2 new compact Surface devices starting well under $1,000

Today, Microsoft confirmed some long-standing rumors and unveiled two new compact Surface devices, its second batch of Qualcomm-powered Copilot+ PCs. The devices include a more portable 13-inch Surface Laptop and a 12-inch Surface Pro, which are pared-down versions of Microsoft's flagship laptop and convertible. Both Surface devices feature an eight-core Snapdragon X Plus processor with an NPU rated at 45 trillion AI operations per second (TOPS), which supports the latest Copilot+ experiences. The new Surface Laptop and Surface Pro will come with 16GB of RAM, 256GB or 512GB of UFS storage, and three finishes: Ocean, Violet, and Platinum. They're set for release on Tuesday, May 20 starting at $899.99 and $799.99, respectively. Preorders are now available from the Microsoft Store and Best Buy. Measuring in at 11.25 x 8.43 x 0.61 inches and 2.7 pounds, the new 13-inch Surface Laptop is the "thinnest and lightest Surface Laptop yet," according to a company blog post. It joins the Surface Laptop 7th Edition, Mashable's current favorite Windows laptop, which debuted in June 2024 in two sizes: 13.8 inches and 15 inches. Compared to last year's model, the new Surface Laptop has a downgraded 60Hz touchscreen display with a lower resolution and contrast ratio. It's also a tad less powerful, as the existing Surface Laptop 7 is configurable with 10-core Snapdragon X Plus and 12-core Snapdragon X Elite CPUs with up to 64GB of RAM. It should still be plenty peppy, though: Microsoft's announcement claims it "outpaces the MacBook Air M3," Apple's previous-generation notebook. The 13-inch Surface Laptop might have one leg up over the flagship model in the stamina department. It's rated at 23 hours of local video playback per charge, whereas the Surface Laptop 7 is rated at 20 hours. That said, the latter lasted nearly 23 hours in Mashable's hands-on testing, so they could be equals in practice. At $899.99, the new Surface Laptop is $100 cheaper than the entry-level Surface Laptop 7, and even cheaper than Apple MacBook Air laptops. The launch of the 13-inch Surface Laptop seems to mark the end of Microsoft's Surface Laptop Go line of budget portable laptops, which was last updated in 2023 (we've reached out to a company rep to confirm this). It's also a sign that the tech giant is committed to Windows on ARM over x86-based processors (for its consumer-oriented products, at least). The most recent Surface Laptop Go 3, a 12.4-incher, was powered by a 12th-gen Intel Core CPU. The 12-inch Surface Pro measures 10.8 x 7.47 x 0.3 inches and weighs in at only 1.5 pounds, making it "the thinnest and lightest Copilot+ PC yet" across all brands, per Microsoft's announcement. That was a title previously held by the Asus ZenBook A14. A hybrid device with a built-in adjustable kickstand, the new Surface Pro is a smaller alternative to last year's 13-inch Surface Pro 11th Edition, which came in two different configurations: a 10-core Snapdragon X Plus variant with a LCD touchscreen display, and a 12-core Snapdragon X Elite model with an OLED touchscreen display, both with up to 64GB of memory. Its own touchscreen has a worse refresh rate, resolution, and contrast ratio than both of the flagship options, but a better rated battery life of 16 hours of local video playback per charge (compared to 14 on WiFi-only models and nine with those sporting cellular connectivity). As with the new Surface Laptop, we'll see how that translates to real-world usage. A new Surface Pro 12-inch Keyboard will turn the Surface Pro into a laptop, while Microsoft's Surface Slim Pen will allow the user to draw or take notes on its display. (It can magnetically attach to the back of the new Surface Pro for safekeeping.) Both accessories are sold separately. The new Surface Pro will start at $799.99, making it $200 cheaper than the base Surface Pro 11. Microsoft introduced several new and updated Copilot+ experiences alongside its new Surface devices Tuesday, including a dynamic lighting feature in Microsoft Photos, a custom sticker generator in Paint, image description-reading capabilities for Narrator, and more Click to Do actions. They'll roll out to members of its Windows Insiders feature preview program over the course of the next month. Copilot+ PC users will also soon have the option to enable an AI agent that can automate and execute tasks within their Settings menu. Users will be able to describe what they need help with in plain English, such as "my mouse pointer is too small," and the AI agent will take care of it. Head over to the Microsoft Blog to check out the full list of new Copilot features.

Microsoft reveals 2 compact Surface devices starting well under $1,000

Today, Microsoft confirmed some long-standing rumors and unveiled two new compact Surface devices, its second batch of Qualcomm-powered Copilot+ PCs. The devices include a more portable 13-inch Surface Laptop and a 12-inch Surface Pro, which are pared-down versions of Microsoft's flagship laptop and convertible. Both Surface devices feature an eight-core Snapdragon X Plus processor with an NPU rated at 45 trillion AI operations per second (TOPS), which supports the latest Copilot+ experiences. The new Surface Laptop and Surface Pro will come with 16GB of RAM, 256GB or 512GB of UFS storage, and three finishes: Ocean, Violet, and Platinum. They're set for release on Tuesday, May 20 starting at $899.99 and $799.99, respectively. Preorders are now available from the Microsoft Store and Best Buy. Measuring in at 11.25 x 8.43 x 0.61 inches and 2.7 pounds, the new 13-inch Surface Laptop is the "thinnest and lightest Surface Laptop yet," according to a company blog post. It joins the Surface Laptop 7th Edition, Mashable's current favorite Windows laptop, which debuted in June 2024 in two sizes: 13.8 inches and 15 inches. Compared to last year's model, the new Surface Laptop has a downgraded 60Hz touchscreen display with a lower resolution and contrast ratio. It's also a tad less powerful, as the existing Surface Laptop 7 is configurable with 10-core Snapdragon X Plus and 12-core Snapdragon X Elite CPUs with up to 64GB of RAM. It should still be plenty peppy, though: Microsoft's announcement claims it "outpaces the MacBook Air M3," Apple's previous-generation notebook. The 13-inch Surface Laptop might have one leg up over the flagship model in the stamina department. It's rated at 23 hours of local video playback per charge, whereas the Surface Laptop 7 is rated at 20 hours. That said, the latter lasted nearly 23 hours in Mashable's hands-on testing, so they could be equals in practice. At $899.99, the new Surface Laptop is $100 cheaper than the entry-level Surface Laptop 7, and even cheaper than Apple MacBook Air laptops. The launch of the 13-inch Surface Laptop seems to mark the end of Microsoft's Surface Laptop Go line of budget portable laptops, which was last updated in 2023 (we've reached out to a company rep to confirm this). It's also a sign that the tech giant is committed to Windows on ARM over x86-based processors (for its consumer-oriented products, at least). The most recent Surface Laptop Go 3, a 12.4-incher, was powered by a 12th-gen Intel Core CPU. The 12-inch Surface Pro measures 10.8 x 7.47 x 0.3 inches and weighs in at only 1.5 pounds, making it "the thinnest and lightest Copilot+ PC yet" across all brands, per Microsoft's announcement. That was a title previously held by the Asus ZenBook A14. A hybrid device with a built-in adjustable kickstand, the new Surface Pro is a smaller alternative to last year's 13-inch Surface Pro 11th Edition, which came in two different configurations: a 10-core Snapdragon X Plus variant with a LCD touchscreen display, and a 12-core Snapdragon X Elite model with an OLED touchscreen display, both with up to 64GB of memory. Its own touchscreen has a worse refresh rate, resolution, and contrast ratio than both of the flagship options, but a better rated battery life of 16 hours of local video playback per charge (compared to 14 on WiFi-only models and nine with those sporting cellular connectivity). As with the new Surface Laptop, we'll see how that translates to real-world usage. A new Surface Pro 12-inch Keyboard will turn the Surface Pro into a laptop, while Microsoft's Surface Slim Pen will allow the user to draw or take notes on its display. (It can magnetically attach to the back of the new Surface Pro for safekeeping.) Both accessories are sold separately. The new Surface Pro will start at $799.99, making it $200 cheaper than the base Surface Pro 11. Microsoft introduced several new and updated Copilot+ experiences alongside its new Surface devices Tuesday, including a dynamic lighting feature in Microsoft Photos, a custom sticker generator in Paint, image description-reading capabilities for Narrator, and more Click to Do actions. They'll roll out to members of its Windows Insiders feature preview program over the course of the next month. Copilot+ PC users will also soon have the option to enable an AI agent that can automate and execute tasks within their Settings menu. Users will be able to describe what they need help with in plain English, such as "my mouse pointer is too small," and the AI agent will take care of it. Head over to the Microsoft Blog to check out the full list of new Copilot features.

Microsoft's new Surface Pro could solve our biggest issue with the previous gen

Microsoft seems to have taken our biggest complaints about the Microsoft Surface Pro (11th Edition) to heart. While we appreciated the Surface Pro (11th Edition)'s fantastic performance, stunning display, and superb battery life, it's price tag was a bit steep for a Windows tablet. But that should change soon. Microsoft announced new Copilot+ Surface devices during today's Surface AI event. The new Surface devices include the smaller, more budget-friendly Surface Pro 12-inch tablet, which was the subject of rumors earlier this year. Starting at just $799, could the new Surface Pro 12-inch tablet be our new favorite Surface product? Like the other Surface Copilot+ PC devices, the Surface Pro 12-inch tablet features an AI PC chipset with an NPU capable of over 40 TOPS (trillions of operations per second) of AI performance. This gives the Surface Pro 12-inch access to the full Copilot+ suite of AI applications including Live Captions, CoCreate, and Recall. The Surface Pro 12-inch is also the thinnest and lightest Surface device, measuring just 0.3 inches thick and weighing just 1.5 pounds, making it the most portable of the Surface lineup. And that makes it ideal for students, artists, and commuters. Microsoft has also revamped the keyboard for the new Surface tablet, with a full-size backlit keyboard and precision touchpad with adaptive touch controls. The keyboard lies flat when open and folds completely back against the Surface Pro tablet for easier use when writing or sketching in tablet mode. Finally, the new Surface Pro 12-inch tablet comes in multiple colors: Slate, Ocean, and Violet. With the addition of the new Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus (8 core) Surface devices, Microsoft has options for most budgets in this most recent Surface generation. Between the high-end Snapdragon X Elite-powered Surface Laptop (7th Edition) and Surface Pro (11th Edition), to the work-focused Intel Lunar Lake Surface Laptop and Surface Pro for Business that were announced earlier this year, and now the two budget-friendly options, there's soon to be Surface product for most everyone. The Surface Pro 12-inch will be available starting May 20, with configurations starting at $799. We can't get too excited about the new Surface Pro 12-inch until we get a chance to test it out and see if it truly makes up for the faults of the Surface Pro (11th Edition), but based on what we know so far it looks like it should address most of our issues.

4 things I'm excited about in the new Microsoft Surface laptops

Table of Contents Table of Contents Better battery life Upgraded NPU to 45 TOPS Sleek new design with OLED display option on Surface Pro 11 New Snapdragon X Plus and Elite: Big performance shift for Surface The bottom line Microsoft's new Surface laptops have arrived, and they're more than just routine refreshes. According to Microsoft, powered by Snapdragon X processors and built for the Copilot+ AI experience, they promise significant battery life, performance, and usability improvements. After reviewing the key updates, here are four standout features that make Microsoft's latest Surface laptop worth the upgrade. Better battery life One of Microsoft's biggest promises with its new Surface laptops is vastly improved battery life, a long-standing request from Windows users. According to Microsoft, the 13-inch Surface Laptop can deliver up to 23 hours of video playback or 16 hours of web browsing, while the larger 15-inch version delivers up to 22 hours of video or 15 hours of browsing. Recommended Videos For the more portable Surface Pro 11, Microsoft claims up to 16 hours of video playback and 10 hours of web use. That's a notable jump compared to previous Intel-based models, which often struggled to hit double digits in real-world use. If these claims hold up, it could mean a full day's work or travel without scrambling for a charger. That reliability is a game-changer for students, commuters, or anyone who works away from a desk and needs to go longer between charges. It's one of the first real signs that Windows laptops may finally catch up to Apple's M-series MacBooks in terms of battery efficiency. Upgraded NPU to 45 TOPS One of the most significant upgrades inside Microsoft's new Surface laptops is the inclusion of more powerful Neural Processing Units (NPU), a key requirement for Copilot+ features. For those unfamiliar, an NPU is a dedicated chip designed to handle AI tasks much faster and more efficiently than traditional processors. According to Microsoft, the new Snapdragon X processors include NPUs capable of delivering up to 45 trillion operations per second (TOPS). This is a noticeable increase from the 40 TOPS offered in some ARM-based Windows devices and previous-generation NPUs. This jump in processing power enables advanced AI features to run locally without depending on the cloud. Microsoft says this will allow for faster performance in tasks like Windows Studio Effects, real-time translation, and the highly anticipated and controversial Recall feature, which indexes your past activity for quick retrieval. It helps prepare these devices for the growing demands of generative AI apps in Windows 11. Sleek new design with OLED display option on Surface Pro 11 Microsoft's new Surface Pro 11 sticks to the familiar 2-in-1 design but introduces a few noticeable refinements. The device is slightly slimmer, with softer edges that give it a more modern look without compromising the kickstand or keyboard compatibility. Microsoft is offering an optional OLED display alongside the standard LCD version for the first time. According to Microsoft, the OLED panel delivers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast than previous Surface screens. This display supports a 120Hz dynamic refresh rate and Dolby Vision IQ, improving everyday use and creative tasks like photo editing or video streaming. However, the OLED option is only available on the Surface Pro 11 tablet. The new Surface Laptop models continue to use LCDs, but Microsoft has improved their brightness and color accuracy. New Snapdragon X Plus and Elite: Big performance shift for Surface This year's Surface lineup also marks a significant shift under the hood. Instead of the usual Intel or AMD chips, Microsoft's new Surface laptops, including the X Plus and the higher-end X Elite, are powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon X series processors. The 13-inch Surface Laptop comes equipped with the Snapdragon X Plus, while the 15-inch Surface Laptop and select configurations of the Surface Pro 11 feature the X Elite. Both processors use Qualcomm's new ARM architecture, which delivers faster multitasking, lower power consumption, and quieter operation than previous designs. According to Microsoft, the Snapdragon X Plus and X Elite include the same upgraded Neural Processing Unit (NPU) capable of 45 trillion operations per second (TOPS). The X Plus typically features a 10-core CPU, though some devices use an 8-core version. Meanwhile, the Elite steps up to a 12-core CPU. It is expected to offer better sustained performance and faster boost speeds -- ideal for heavier workloads like video editing, design software, or AI-enhanced apps. The switch to Snapdragon X brings other practical benefits. Arm-based processors typically extend battery life and reduce heat, leading to longer usage between charges and less fan noise, two of the most noticeable improvements for everyday users. At the same time, Microsoft made these chips to handle the increasing demand for on-device AI tasks that power Microsoft's Copilot+ experience, including features like Windows Studio Effects and Recall. For many Windows users, this is the first time Arm-based chips are becoming a mainstream option without the compromises seen in earlier attempts. If Microsoft's and Qualcomm's performance claims hold up, these new processors could finally make Arm-powered PCs a viable choice for a broader range of users. The bottom line Microsoft's new Surface laptops introduce the most meaningful set of upgrades the lineup has seen in years. Between longer battery life, faster on-device AI performance, improved displays, and a shift to more efficient processors, the latest models offer real benefits for casual users and demanding multitaskers. One detail that might fly under the radar is that the 13.5-inch Surface Laptop drops the microSD card slot found in some older models -- a helpful feature for creators and frequent file transfers. Also, while both models ship with Windows 11 Home, users who rely on BitLocker or virtualization tools will need to upgrade to Pro. While the final verdict will depend on real-world testing, these upgrades suggest Microsoft's Surface lineup is finally catching up with its competitors and offering Windows users a more efficient, AI-ready option going forward.

Microsoft's New Surface Laptop Runs Faster Than MacBook Air M3

Powered by Snapdragon X Plus processors with integrated 45 TOPS NPUs, the devices are built to support on-device AI experiences and long battery life. Microsoft has expanded its Copilot+ PC lineup with two new devices -- a 13-inch Surface Laptop and a 12-inch Surface Pro -- both launching on May 20. Powered by Snapdragon X Plus processors with integrated 45 TOPS NPUs, the devices are built to support on-device AI experiences and long battery life. The new Surface Laptop will start at $899, while the Surface Pro will start at $799. Both models are part of Microsoft's push to deliver faster, more efficient Windows PCs with integrated AI capabilities. "These new PCs reflect the next chapter of Surface innovation," said Brett Ostrum, corporate vice president, Surface, Microsoft. "We are proud to introduce two new Surface Copilot+ PCs... that deliver great experiences for great value." The Surface Laptop is Microsoft's thinnest and lightest in its class. It features a 13-inch full HD touchscreen, fingerprint reader, and the new Copilot key. It offers up to 23 hours of video playback and up to 16 hours of active web browsing. Microsoft claims it is 50% faster than the Surface Laptop 5 and surpasses Apple's MacBook Air M3. The new Surface Pro maintains its 2-in-1 form factor with a detachable keyboard and adjustable kickstand. It weighs 1.5 pounds and is also powered by the Snapdragon X Plus chip. A new keyboard with Copilot and lock keys is included, folding flat for easier sketching and writing. Both devices support AI features such as Recall, Click to Do, and improved Windows search. Recall (in preview) helps users retrace steps to find past content, while Click to Do lets users take action directly from on-screen elements using local and web-based AI models. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm Technologies, noted, "We are excited to continue to partner with Microsoft... Both devices are powered by Snapdragon X Plus (8-core) and a 45 TOPS NPU, delivering the performance, speed and battery life customers expect." Additional AI-powered applications optimised for the NPU include Moises Live by Music.AI, which performs real-time audio separation, and Gigapixel AI by Topaz Labs for upscaling images. Other compatible apps include Capcut, DJay Pro, Davinci Resolve and Liquidtext. For enterprise customers, both devices will be available as part of the Surface for Business Copilot+ PC family starting July 22 in select markets. Business versions will come with Windows 11 Pro, NFC reader (on the Pro), anti-reflective displays and security features. Microsoft said the devices also include sustainability improvements, with the Surface Laptop using 100% recycled cobalt in its battery cell and the Surface Pro incorporating 82.9% recycled content in its enclosure. The new Surface Copilot+ PCs are available in multiple colour options and will be sold through retail and commercial channels.

Microsoft debuts lower-end Surface devices to push AI tools

Microsoft is rolling out two lower-end versions of its main Surface devices in a bid to drum up interest in computers that can take advantage of the company's artificial intelligence tools and better compete with Apple's range of slim devices. The 13-inch Surface Laptop and 12-inch Surface Pro two-in-one tablet went on sale on Tuesday and will ship to consumers in the U.S. and select markets starting May 20. Both are thinner, lighter and boast longer battery life than their predecessors. They also lack the higher-end processors and storage options of previous Surface devices but sell for the same or higher prices. The laptop can handle up to 16 hours of web browsing on a single charge, the company says, while the tablet is designed to be both portable and capable of handling desktop applications. The Surface line represents a sliver of Microsoft sales, accounting for about 2% of revenue in the most recent fiscal year, and a similarly tiny slice of the global PC market. But it helps showcase Windows devices that were designed to go head-to-head with Apple's high-end laptops and cast a halo over the Windows operating system. For the last few years, those ambitions have centered on AI-branded software that can generate text and images and engage users in conversation. Microsoft last year added a keyboard button that summons its Copilot AI assistant and preloaded such features as email summarization and image generation to Windows applications. Both new Surface devices carry the "Copilot+ PC" designation Microsoft gives to high-end computers with a so-called neural processing unit. It handles things like real-time translation in video calls or image generation, freeing up the CPU -- in this case, Qualcomm Inc.'s Snapdragon X Plus -- for other tasks. The Qualcomm chips use the battery-efficient ARM architecture initially designed for smartphones. That can raise compatibility issues, particularly for video games or customized business applications written for the Intel Corp. processors that dominated the PC market for decades. On a call with reporters last week, Microsoft Windows and devices chief Pavan Davuluri said the company had addressed compatibility issues for "the vast majority" of customers. The Surface Laptop weighs 2.7 pounds, is 0.61 of an inch thick, has a touch screen and starts at $899. The Surface Pro, 1.5 pounds and less than a third of an inch thick, features the line's typical kickstand and front- and rear-facing cameras. It starts at $799 -- with a stylus and snap-on keyboard sold separately. During the briefing, Davuluri didn't say whether U.S. tariffs factored into the latest devices' prices, calling the levies "a moving target." Surface computers on display at a recent media preview were assembled in Mexico. The aluminum casing on both machines will be available in colors Microsoft calls Ocean, Platinum and Violet. They sport 16 gigabytes of RAM and offer either 256 gigabytes or 512 gigabytes of storage. The previous generation of each device offered users the option of up to 64 GB of memory, 1 terabyte of storage, and had more processor cores, allowing them to handle more tasks simultaneously. Business-focused variants of the computers will ship in July, Microsoft said. Surface sales have declined in recent years, part of a broad post-pandemic slump in purchases of consumer electronics. Microsoft doesn't break out quarterly hardware results, but device sales fell 15% during fiscal 2024 to $4.7 billion. The company's in-house hardware groups in recent years have endured layoffs, the sale of the HoloLens augmented reality unit and the loss of former Surface chief Panos Panay to rival Amazon.

Microsoft launches lower-priced AI laptops with Qualcomm chips

Both will feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Plus chips, and they will be priced slightly between competing products from Apple such as its MacBook Air, which starts at $999 and its iPads, where Air Pro models start at $649 and $999.Microsoft on Tuesday said it will release a new laptop and tablet with chips from Qualcomm at lower prices than before, aiming to get new AI features to a broader set of customers. The newest Surface 13-inch laptop and Surface Pro 12-inch tablet will go on sale on May 20, with the laptop starting at $899 and the tablet starting at $799. Both will feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Plus chips, and they will be priced slightly between competing products from Apple such as its MacBook Air, which starts at $999 and its iPads, where Air Pro models start at $649 and $999. But Microsoft's new offerings will be its lowest-priced yet with support for what it calls "Copilot+" features that it introduced last year. That bundle of features includes things like the ability to ask how to change the computer's settings as a natural language question rather than sifting through settings menus or the ability to ask for an AI-generated first draft of a word document. Microsoft has set performance computing chip requirements for the new Copilot+ label, which has meant that most of those AI features are only available on machines that cost $1,000 or more. Pavan Davuluri, corporate vice president of Windows and Devices at Microsoft, said the new Surface devices are aimed at getting those features to a broader set of users, especially students or young professionals at the start of their careers. "We think these new Surface Pro and laptops are for a set of customers for whom affordability is going to be important," Davuluri told reporters during a press briefing on April 28.

Microsoft Surface Pro 12'' and Surface Laptop 13'' 2025 Copilot+ PCs with Snapdragon X Plus announced

Microsoft has announced the Surface Pro, 12-inch, and Surface Laptop, 13-inch, both powered by Snapdragon X Plus processors with a 45 TOPS neural processing unit (NPU) for improved performance and AI capabilities. The Surface Laptop, 13-inch, is Microsoft's thinnest and lightest laptop, built for portability with an anodized aluminum chassis in Ocean, Violet, and Platinum colors. Microsoft noted it runs 50% quicker than the Surface Laptop 5 and delivers better performance than the MacBook Air M3. It provides up to 23 hours of video playback and 16 hours of web browsing, with USB-C fast charging. The 13-inch FHD touchscreen display has thin bezels, and an AI-enhanced camera supports Auto Video HDR and noise reduction. The keyboard is quiet, with a fingerprint reader in the power button and a Copilot key for AI access. A customizable precision touchpad uses adaptive touch mode. Microsoft noted the laptop includes 100% recycled cobalt in the battery and 100% recycled rare earth metals in the magnets. Numerous parts are replaceable by certified technicians to support repairs. The Surface Pro, 12-inch, is a 2-in-1 device, serving as a laptop or tablet with an adjustable kickstand and detachable keyboard. Weighing 1.5 pounds, it comes with a Surface Slim Pen that magnetically connects to the back for charging and secure storage. The new Surface Pro 12-inch Keyboard, available in Slate, Ocean, and Violet, attaches easily and folds flat for sketching or writing. It features a smooth palm rest, illuminated keys, a Copilot key, and an adjustable touchpad. Microsoft said the device uses 82.9% recycled content in its enclosure and 100% recycled cobalt in the battery. Replaceable components help reduce e-waste. Both devices support Copilot+ PC experiences, including: Brett Ostrum, Corporate Vice President, Surface, said the devices will gain new Copilot+ PC features. A Settings agent, first for Windows Insiders, will suggest or complete actions based on user descriptions. Photos Relight will add pro-grade lighting effects to images. Ostrum noted developer partnerships for NPU-optimized apps. Moises Live by Music.AI separates audio in real time, performing 35 times faster on the NPU than the CPU. Gigapixel AI by Topaz Labs upscales images up to 16 times with high quality. Additional apps include Capcut, DJay Pro, Davinci Resolve, Camo, Cephable, Liquidtext, and more. Both are available for pre-order in Available in Ocean, Violet, Platinum colors. and will ship in select markets from May 20, 2025, through Microsoft.com, Best Buy (U.S.), and Amazon (U.S.). Microsoft added that both devices will join the Surface for Business Copilot+ PC lineup in select markets starting July 22, 2025.

Microsoft's New Surface Laptops Feature Snapdragon X Plus and Built-In AI

Microsoft Unveils Surface CoPilot+ PCs with Snapdragon X Plus: Specs & Pricing Inside Microsoft Surface laptops are designed to provide a high-end computing experience, with stylish design and robust AI-powered performance. With the latest Snapdragon X Plus processor and the new Copilot+ PC platform, these laptops provide smarter workflows, instant access to AI support, and increased productivity. With built-in security, all-day battery life, and smart features like AI-powered cameras, these laptops are optimized for professionals and creatives who need speed, intelligence, and mobility in a single device.