Microsoft’s Surface and AI event this week
Microsoft's Surface and AI event this week
Microsoft’s Upcoming Fall Event: New Surfaces and AI Innovations
Microsoft’s highly-anticipated fall event is just around the corner, set to take place on September 21 in New York City. As with previous events, the tech giant is expected to unveil a range of new Surface products, along with exciting AI updates. Last year, Microsoft introduced the Surface Laptop 5, Surface Pro 9, Surface Studio 2+, and several accessories. This year, we can expect similar hardware releases, alongside a significant focus on AI-powered features and services.
Yusuf Mehdi, Corporate VP & Consumer Chief Marketing Officer at Microsoft, has essentially confirmed via an X post that the event will showcase more AI innovations. While Apple recently live-streamed its launch event, Microsoft has taken a different approach, opting for rolling announcements throughout the day and week. ENBLE, among other press outlets, will be attending the event, providing on-the-floor coverage.
Let’s dive into what we can expect on September 21!
What’s New with Hardware?
Surface Laptop Studio 2
Chances of being unveiled: High
The original Surface Laptop Studio was launched in September 2021 and is due for an upgrade. It combined the traditional Surface Laptop form factor with the versatility of 2-in-1 Surface Books and the power of a desktop Studio. ENBLE tested the model last year and labeled it a “true convertible laptop,” though it had some drawbacks.
The Surface Laptop Studio 2, if released, is expected to feature more ports than its predecessor, catering to working professionals and content creators. It may come equipped with 13th-gen Intel processors and an NVIDIA RTX 40 Series GPU, providing improved performance. With a price around $1,599, it would offer a compelling package.
Surface Laptop Go 3
Chances of being unveiled: High
The Surface Laptop Go line represents an entry-level option, offering a lightweight, compact, and budget-friendly laptop. Last year’s Surface Laptop Go 2 was well-received, providing good performance and a clean design at a significantly lower price compared to the Studio Laptop.
A year later, Microsoft may refresh the lineup with the Surface Laptop Go 3, focusing on improvements to battery life, webcam quality, and display performance. It will likely retain the 3:2 aspect ratio seen on other Surface laptop models, along with the latest Intel processors.
Surface Go 4
Chances of being unveiled: High
Similar to the Surface Laptop Go line, the Surface Go tablets are considered entry-level devices with a lower price point and lightweight design. The Surface Go 3, released in September 2021, introduced iterative upgrades from its predecessor.
Microsoft will likely take a similar approach with the Surface Go 4, maintaining the overall form factor and prioritizing internal updates. One major improvement could be the availability of both Intel-based and ARM-based variants, offering better battery life and potentially featuring 5G connectivity.
Surface Pro 10
Chances of being unveiled: Medium
The Surface Pro is Microsoft’s flagship device, and this year marks its 10th anniversary. While the naming scheme for the upcoming model remains unclear, Microsoft has released a new Surface Pro each year, with the 8th and 9th generations launching in 2021 and 2022, respectively.
The Surface Pro 9 received positive feedback as a Windows 2-in-1 device, but it didn’t push boundaries in terms of design and functionality compared to its predecessors. With the Surface Pro 10, Microsoft has an opportunity to deliver a significant leap forward. Reports suggest it may offer two size options, including a smaller 11-inch model with slimmer bezels.
New Surface Accessories
Chances of being unveiled: Medium
Microsoft announced a shift in its accessory strategy, focusing on creating accessories specifically for the Surface line. Last year’s event showcased the Microsoft Presenter+ and Microsoft Audio Dock, catering to the hybrid work environment.
While Microsoft has transitioned away from making Microsoft-branded PC accessories, we can expect a similar launch strategy for-Surface accessories this year.
What’s New with Software?
Third-party Plug-ins in Bing Chat, finally
Chances of being unveiled: High
Microsoft previously announced plans to adopt the same open plugin standard as OpenAI, offering access to various third-party plugins. These plugins empower users with features like restaurant booking, trip planning, and grocery shopping.
The availability of third-party plugins for Bing Chat has yet to be announced, but the fall event presents an excellent opportunity for Microsoft to introduce these plugins for the chatbot, as previously teased.
Bing-supported ChatGPT availability for everyone
Chances of being unveiled: Medium
At Microsoft Build, Bing Chat integrated ChatGPT, expanding its search capabilities beyond 2021 with access to the web through Bing’s search engine. Initially limited to ChatGPT Plus subscribers, Microsoft promised to make it available for free to everyone soon, using a Bing plug-in.
The fall event might bring the official announcement of Bing-supported ChatGPT becoming accessible to all users.
Windows 11 AI Integration
Chances of being unveiled: Medium
Rumors have circulated about an AI revamp of Windows 11, integrating generative features into popular applications like Photos, Snipping Tool, and Paint. These AI integrations would enable users to identify objects in images, copy and paste them, and incorporate OCR functionality.
While not confirmed, the fall event may provide more details about the AI enhancements coming to Windows 11.
With new Surface products on the horizon and exciting AI innovations in store, Microsoft’s fall event promises to be a thrilling showcase of technology. Mark your calendars for September 21 and stay tuned for all the latest updates!
