Autumn marks the arrival of innovative gadgets. Apple has recently revealed its newest iPhones, Amazon presented new smart speakers and an Alexa-enabled microwave, while Google is set to host its own product showcase next week.
Nevertheless, this Tuesday is dedicated to Microsoft, which introduced an array of devices in anticipation of the holiday shopping period. The collection features a refreshed version of its desktop computer, named the Surface Studio 2, as well as the debut of its first smart headphones. Additionally, the Surface Pro 6 and Surface Laptop 2 were announced.
The original Surface desktop, aimed at creative professionals as an iMac alternative, was launched in October 2016. The Surface Studio 2, its successor, boasts enhanced graphics performance and is touted as the fastest Surface device to date. It features a 28-inch display and USB-C compatibility; pre-orders begin at $3,499 this Tuesday.
The Surface Headphones, priced at $349, come equipped with adjustable noise cancellation and a smart feature that automatically pauses playback when removed. Microsoft’s virtual assistant, Cortana, is integrated and can read out emails or initiate conference calls. They will be released later this year.
In the meantime, Microsoft claims that the Surface Pro 6 is 67% more powerful than its earlier version while maintaining the same battery life of up to 13.5 hours. It is designed for seamless switching between laptop, studio, and tablet modes, available in black and platinum, starting at $899.
When it first appeared in 2012, the initial Surface Pro was marketed as a tablet resembling an iPad, but with a keyboard cover. Since then, Microsoft has repositioned it as a laptop with touchscreen functionality. This 2-in-1 concept targets professionals such as doctors, pilots, and students who require a tablet for note-taking or reading, alongside a laptop’s full capabilities.
The Surface Laptop 2, which starts at $999, offers enhanced typing comfort and can last up to 14.5 hours on a charge. It boasts an 85% increase in speed compared to its predecessor, and it now comes in a new black color, adding to the existing shades of burgundy, platinum, and blue.
“Devices are increasingly becoming integral to every aspect of your daily life. We design these products to cater to both your professional and personal needs,” said Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft’s corporate VP of modern life and devices, in an interview with CNN.
Additionally, Microsoft revealed its upcoming Windows software update, named Windows 10 October 2018 Update, focusing on productivity enhancements. Notably, the Your Phone App facilitates the transfer of texts and photos from an Android device to your PC, a function similar to Apple’s iMessage integration. Users can also synchronize a To-Do list with Outlook.com, enabling them to drag tasks into their calendar for designated work periods.
According to Andrew Hewitt, an analyst at Forrester, Microsoft’s primary target for these devices is enterprise professionals. He has noted the company’s substantial commitment to productivity features such as Timeline, which allows users to return to previously accessed files and websites, and Focus Assistant designed to minimize distractions from notifications.
“Microsoft seems to be positioning itself to compete with Apple in the creative domain, offering new capabilities for photo and video editing,” stated Hewitt. “However, the additional features are more closely aligned with Microsoft’s objective to empower employees and enhance productivity.”
