Microsoft has rolled out updates to its Surface for Business Copilot+ PC series, revealing new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop models that come with Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2). These machines are tailored for professional users, emphasizing top-notch performance, eco-friendliness, and tools powered by AI to enhance productivity.
Surface Laptop for Business: Features and Aesthetics
The latest Surface Laptop for Business is available in 13.8-inch and 15-inch variations, boasting anti-glare screens with slim bezels, Wi-Fi 7, and a variety of ports, including an optional smart card reader. It runs on Intel Core Ultra processors that can deliver up to 22 hours of battery life.
In terms of performance, these laptops see up to 26% improvements in multi-tasking over the Surface Laptop 5, double the graphics capabilities, and triple the battery endurance during Teams meetings. With built-in NPU support, the 15-inch variant achieves 48 TOPS (Trillion Operations Per Second), while the 13.8-inch version offers 40 TOPS. Battery longevity is notable, with the 15-inch model providing up to 22 hours of video playback and 14 hours of web browsing, while the 13.8-inch model supports 20 hours of video play and 12 hours of internet usage. Both models feature a precise haptic touchpad, backlit keyboards, and dual studio microphones paired with Dolby Atmos speakers.
These laptops are designed with sustainability in mind, utilizing 67.6% recycled materials, such as 100% recycled aluminum and rare earth elements. The battery cells are made with 100% recycled cobalt, aligning with Microsoft’s commitment to being carbon-negative.
Surface Pro for Business: Versatility and Strength
The refreshed Surface Pro for Business retains its 2-in-1 format, making it ideal for tablet and laptop functions. It is equipped with Intel Core Ultra 5 or Core Ultra 7 processors, featuring NPU capabilities of 40 TOPS and 48 TOPS, respectively.
The device showcases a 13-inch PixelSense Flow display, which comes in both OLED and LCD formats, featuring a resolution of 2880 x 1920, a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, and a brightness of 600 nits. It includes a 1440p front camera and a 10MP rear camera, making it perfect for video conferencing and content creation.
Storage options range from 256GB to 1TB of removable Gen 4 SSD, alongside 16GB or 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM. For security, it includes TPM 2.0, BitLocker encryption, Microsoft Pluton, and Windows Hello facial recognition.
Battery performance is rated at up to 14 hours for video playback and 10 hours for web activities. The device weighs 1.92 lbs (872g) without the keyboard and comes with a 165-degree kickstand for versatile use.
Surface Laptop 5G: Future Launch
Microsoft has also revealed plans for the Surface Laptop 5G, which is expected to launch in 2025. This will mark the first Surface Laptop to offer cellular connectivity, though further details are yet to be disclosed.
Security and AI Enhancements
Security remains a central focus for Copilot+ PCs. The Microsoft Pluton security processor safeguards sensitive information, while Windows 11 and Microsoft 365 provide tools to fight against phishing, malware, and ransomware. AI-powered features, including an enhanced Windows Search, are available to assist users in locating files using relevant words or phrases.
The Surface Management Portal in Microsoft Intune gives IT administrators tools to oversee and manage devices efficiently. Beginning February 24, 2025, the Security Copilot feature will be in public preview, introducing generative AI capabilities for device management.
Pricing and Availability
The starting price for the Surface Laptop for Business is US$1,499.99, which is the same for the Surface Pro for Business. Both devices will be available for purchase starting February 18, 2025.
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