Ticking all the boxes! Microsoft has just unveiled the next generation of its Surface Pro tablet at its annual October event, and these new units feature several changes.
It is still a Surface Pro through and through, but these latest models pack a bunch of improvements to not just its internal circuitry but also processors and 5G connectivity, along with new vibrant colors and refreshed accessories.
Rumor has it that the flagship tablet will be Microsoft’s first to feature both Intel and ARM processors within the same lineup.
Buyers have the choice of opting for either the 12th generation Intel Core i5 or i7 models, or they can pick one that houses the Microsoft SQ3 processors that are powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon.
Microsoft highlights how the ARM models pack in a neural processing unit as well as high-speed 5G connectivity for the first time in any Surface. These units also offer better battery life and improved video calls with automatic framing, eye contact, voice focus, and background blur.
In terms of looks, the Surface Pro 9 is very similar to its predecessors, with the same anodized aluminum body. It serves as the perfect frame for the 13-inch PixelSense display, which offers a resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels with a 120Hz dynamic refresh rate.
It does become Microsoft’s first tablet to feature a vibrant chassis. Alongside the classic Platinum and Graphite color variants, users also have the choice of the new Sapphire and Forest.
You can also customize your Surface Pro 9 with the new Surface Pro Signature Keyboard made with partially biobased Alcantara with at least 12% renewable content derived from sugarcane waste.
Redmond has, however, ditched the 3.5 mm audio jack. This leaves the device with only one Surface Connect, two Thunderbolt/USB-C 4.0 ports on the Intel variant, and two USB-C 3.2 ports on the ARM-based ones.
The company claims up to 15.5 hours of battery life with typical use on the Intel models and up to 19 hours on the ARM variant.
Microsoft plans to make the Surface Pro 9 available for both regular and commercial clients, with the latter units featuring the vPro processors from Intel and the option to ship with Windows 10 Pro instead of Windows 11 Pro. Regular folks will get their devices powered by Windows 11 Home preinstalled.
Pricing starts at $999 for the Intel variants, while the ARM ones with 5G connectivity will cost at least $1,299.
