Microsoft Releases Surface Pro with 12-Inch Display
Microsoft has unveiled a new model of its Surface Pro tablet, which features a 12-inch display. This device follows the 13-inch Surface Pro 11 and is available starting at $799. It is equipped with an Arm processor and serves as a successor to the smaller Surface Go tablet.
The 12-inch Surface Pro includes various design updates, both inside and out. It is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Plus 8-core chip, includes 16GB of RAM, and provides 256GB of storage. The Snapdragon X series chip aims to offer affordable options for laptops while delivering approximately 12 hours of battery life during web usage. A separate keyboard, priced at $149.99, is necessary for this model. Additionally, a version with 512GB of storage is offered at $899.
This model features a 12-inch LCD display with a resolution of 2196 x 1464 and a 90Hz refresh rate, maintaining the traditional 3:2 aspect ratio commonly found in Surface devices. Unlike its larger counterpart, the 12-inch Surface Pro does not include an OLED display option.
Microsoft has redesigned the chassis for this model, opting for a fan-less design enabled by the Snapdragon X Plus chip, which contributes to a more streamlined appearance compared to larger models. The keyboard for the 12-inch Surface Pro has been newly designed to fit the smaller size, connecting magnetically with a different connector than previous models. The keyboard no longer includes an insert for the Surface Pen, which can now be attached and charged at the rear of the device.
The keyboard design has transitioned from the alcantara fabric used in previous models to a smooth matte finish for the palm rests. However, the back of the keyboard maintains the alcantara fabric, available in slate, violet, or ocean green colors.
For connectivity, Microsoft has replaced the Surface Connect port with USB-C exclusively. The device includes two USB-C 3.2 ports, which can be used for charging, data transfers, and connecting to external displays. The front-facing camera on the 12-inch Surface Pro is 1080p, while the rear-facing camera is 10-megapixel and has been repositioned for easier use.
The Surface Pro 12-inch also supports AI-powered features, including the new Recall feature and Windows search enhancements, facilitated by the Snapdragon X Plus chip.
Preorders for the 12-inch Surface Pro are available through Microsoft and Best Buy, with general availability for consumers starting May 20th and for businesses on July 22nd.