Surface Duo 2 Tightly Works with Windows and Office - From Microsoft Media Briefing

Surface Duo 2, a two-screen device (SIM-free) with Android 11

As Microsoft Japan announced on January 7, Surface Duo 2 is the second generation model of dual display Android devices. Based on the feedback collected from the Surface Duo, which has not yet been released in Japan, it is equipped with a rear camera that supports normal, telephoto, and ultra-wide angles. The audio function was improved, NFC was implemented for electronic payment, the body size was adjusted, and a black model was added. Personally, when the display is closed, the sub-display that displays incoming calls and messages, displays the charging status, and adjusts the volume seems convenient.

The above Matt Barlow emphasizes the uniqueness of the Surface Duo 2, saying, "It's not just a phone (smartphone). This is a Surface." This remark refers to the 2in1 PC genre, which is not an exaggeration to say that the Surface family has opened up. The Surface Studio (latest Surface Studio 2), which has a display that can be used at various angles, has greatly changed the usage style of desktop PCs. It probably meant that the development philosophy of the Surface series was inherited by the Surface Duo 2.

For the main specifications of the Surface Duo 2, please refer to the technical specifications page of the Microsoft Store. Approximately 72% struggle to maintain productivity, and dual displays improve productivity by approximately 42%,” said Barlow. At the same time, we also promised to focus on apps optimized for dual displays.

I haven't seen the actual Surface Duo 2 yet, but overseas IT news sites point out that the color temperature of each display is different. When asked about that, he said, "I use (Surface Duo 2) every day, but I don't mind. I want you to actually try it yourself." Microsoft Japan also responded, "We are always inspecting, but if you have any questions, please contact customer support."

Microsoft Japan will develop marketing measures centered on the catchphrase of Surface Duo 2, "I can't go back to smartphones anymore." Unlike the United States, in Japan, there are many situations where people travel by train or bus (public transportation such as). With Surface Duo 2, you can take notes with Surface Slim Pen 2 while participating in meetings with Microsoft Teams while traveling. We will appeal the feature such as "I can take it" (Mr. Ishida). In March 2022, a collaboration with United Arrows, which operates a select shop, is also planned.

Looking at smartphones as a whole, devices with dual displays and foldable displays stand out. This can be said to be unique to Android devices with a high degree of freedom. The reason why I can't buy the Surface Duo 2 is because of its pricing. From 184,580 yen at the Microsoft Store. It is almost the same as the iPhone 13 Pro Max 1TB model.

Since the concept is different, it is not possible to simply compare, but it is highly likely that it will become an expensive toy for the author, who has had fewer opportunities to go out due to the corona crisis. Google is also planning to offer Android 12L as an OS for Android devices equipped with displays for large screens, such as dual displays. Regarding Surface Duo 2's support for Android 12L, Microsoft said, "Surface Duo 2 is optimized for Android 11. I can't tell you what will happen to Android 12L at this time. However, monthly (OS) updates. I will go," (Mr. Barlow), avoiding a clear statement.

In addition, Microsoft Japan has started booking Surface Laptop Studio today, which realized Surface Studio-like operation on a notebook PC. It is scheduled to be released on March 1st, and the Microsoft Store price starts at 209,880 yen.

Furthermore, as a campaign for new college students, "Surface, Surface", the Surface Laptop 4 13.5-inch model, a limited-quantity special model for students, will be on sale from January 27, and from January 29, Surface Pro 7 +. A limited-quantity model that includes a type cover, and from February 8, we plan to start selling Surface Pro 7+ for consumers alone. Personally, Surface Pro 8 is the only choice, but the stability of Surface Laptop 4 is also hard to throw away. I would like new university students to choose based on the fact that they will continue to use it for four years. By the way, the Surface Pro 7 released in 2019 before the Surface Pro 7+ and Surface Pro 8 is still active at home.

Author: Yoshikazu Akutsu

Born in 1972, IT writer. After working as an editorial staff for various PC magazines such as general PC magazines, DOS/V magazines, and Windows magazines, he became independent. While loving Windows and Linux, he has written many PC-related books. In recent years, not only BtoC but also BtoB solutions coverage and interviews are the main battlefield. I have been taking it every day without setting a liver-free day, but the γ-GTP level has increased sharply, and urgent action is required.