Microsoft is all set to launch its next big product event later tonight, September 22. In this virtual event, we anticipate that the company will announce a slew of products during its livestream presentation today at 11AM ET / 8AM PT. While there has been no official announcement of what will be unveiled, experts say all evidence points to all-new Surface Pro, second-generation Surface Duo dual-screen device, Surface Go 3, and more. The invitation of Microsoft for the event revealed no details, simply teasing “Join us to see what’s next.”
How to watch livestream?
Microsoft will be hosting its Surface event 2021 today at 11AM ET – that is 8.30PM IST and will take place in the form of livestream. You will be able to access the livestream on Microsoft’s official website and we expect to be able to watch the event on the Microsoft Surface YouTube.
What to expect?
Like Apple, the fall event of Microsoft gives enough clues about where is company’s hardware strategy is headed. The limelight of the show could be the launch of the much-awaited Microsoft Surface Pro 8. Here’s what all you can expect from the Microsoft’s Surface hardware event.
Microsoft Surface Pro 8
It is being rumored that Microsoft will launch a Surface Pro 8 that will mark as the flagship device to introduce Windows 11, just like the original one was used to launch Windows 8, back in 2012. It’s being said that the Surface Pro would ship without a USB-A port. This would be the first design change in years for the Surface Pro. The latest leak revealed that the upcoming product could have a USB-C and Thunderbolt combination on the device. For the Surface Pro line, the addition of Thunderbolt port would be a major boost.
Microsoft Surface Pro X
Microsoft is expected to announce the sequel of its Surface Pro X, which was launched in 2019 and it is badly in need of a refresh. The new product might not get a redesign, however, it could be made into an always-connected device. It is expected the Windows tablet feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon SQ2 processor, the same custom chip featured in the last Surface Pro X, and 16GB of RAM. It remains to be seen if the new Surface Pro X gets support for a 120Hz display.
Microsoft Surface Go 3
It is expected that the new Surface Go 3 is expected to make its way to the Surface event. The 10-inch Microsoft table will get a specifications upgrade, with no other design changes expected. It is expected to come with either Intel Premium Gold 6500Y or Intel Core i3-10100Y processors. It will still have a 64GB of eMMC storage on the base variant, and a 5-megapixel front-facing camera with Windows Hello. The Surface Go is aimed at the entry-level iPad, which recently made its debut during Apple’s fall event last week.
Microsoft Surface Book 4
Another possible reveal could be a new Surface Book 4, a premium 2-in-1 laptop. It is Microsoft’s most powerful notebook, featuring powerful specifications and detachable screen. The new product could be powered by the Intel 11th-generation Tiger Lake processors. Also, it is being said that the company could also end up changing the name of the laptop to either the “Laptop Pro”, “Book4,” or the “Laptop Studio.”
Microsoft Surface Duo 2
Surface Duo 2 is expected to be the main attraction during the event. It is one of the most exciting products from Microsoft in recent years, and now it’s time for its second version. As per the leaked images that surfaced online, it showcases dual folding displays, separated by a hinge, and will include improved cameras in addition to 5G support, Wi-Fi 6 compatibility, NFC for contactless payments, and “wireless power transfer.” It could also feature a more powerful processor and a high refresh rate display.
Other devices
At the upcoming Microsoft Surface event, many more devices are expected to debut. Other than the above devices, it is likely that Microsoft will launch a new Surface Pen for the Surface Book 4 with better haptic support. It is also expected to reveal new Signature Type Covers. Reports also suggest that Microsoft could launch an updated Surface Headphones 2 or Surface Earbuds during the event.