Microsoft Introduces New Surface Devices

Microsoft has recently launched the new Surface Book 2 model amid rumors that it intends to withdraw from hardware production. The Surface Book is essentially Microsoft's response to Apple's MacBook Pro, with the distinction that this device serves as both a powerful laptop and a strong functional tablet with a stylus. Microsoft has introduced two new laptops from the Surface Book series in 13-inch and 15-inch versions. The 15-inch version will be equipped with a dedicated Nvidia GTX 1060 graphics processor with 6GB of memory, while the 13-inch model only has a dedicated graphics card in the Core i7 version. The 13-inch Surface Book 2 optionally features an Nvidia GeForce 1050 graphics processor. Both graphics cards are suitable for graphic work, video editing, and processing heavy games. The device's RAM is available in two options: 8GB and 16GB. This device utilizes the latest generation of Intel processors. Depending on customer choice, the eighth-generation Intel processor named Core i7 8650U or the seventh-generation Core i5 named 7300U can be ordered for this system. Both Surface Book 2 models are compatible with Microsoft's stylus, which is sold separately. Like the previous generation, the display can be detached from the computer and used independently as a tablet. To avoid the issues of the previous model, Microsoft engineers have employed a new trick. In the previous model, the display could be easily detached with the push of a button to convert into a tablet. At the heart of this laptop is a unique hinge that has not been seen in any previous product. However, despite using such a hinge, the biggest problem with the Surface Book was the instability of its display. Microsoft claims that the hinges of the Surface Book 2 have been completely redesigned based on lessons learned from the first generation, and by using ceramics, they have reduced the overall weight of the product. The weight of the 13-inch model is 1.5 kg and the weight of the 15-inch model is 1.9 kg. Microsoft also claims that the battery life of this product exceeds that of Apple products. The battery life of the Surface Book 2 is up to 70% longer than that of the MacBook Pro 2017. The MacBook Pro 2017 can operate for up to 10 hours on a single charge without needing to connect to a power source. Nevertheless, some technology websites have raised criticisms regarding Microsoft's hardware products, including the Surface Book 2. 'Consumer Reports' states: we cannot recommend the Surface Book 2 as a purchase option to our users. Our decision not to recommend Microsoft Surface products remains in place. Consumer Reports reported in August that more than 25% of Microsoft's Surface series products encounter issues within two years of purchase, a figure significantly higher than that of competing products like Apple. This has led some to suggest that Microsoft intends to abandon hardware production, a claim that Microsoft has denied. Yusuf Mehdi, head of Microsoft's Devices and Windows group, stated, 'The release of the new Surface Books demonstrates Microsoft's commitment to its devices. Surface products are a clear example of our efforts in hardware and software integration.' The 13-inch and 15-inch Surface Books will be priced at $1500 and $2500, respectively, and will hit the market in mid-November.