Tag: Microsoft

  • Xbox Game Pass Growth Slows Amid New Handheld Console Launch

    Xbox Game Pass Growth Slows Amid New Handheld Console Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox Game Pass has reportedly surpassed 35 million subscribers, but Microsoft has not confirmed this figure.
    2. Critics suggest that the growth of Xbox Game Pass subscriptions may have plateaued since the surge during the COVID-19 pandemic.
    3. Microsoft aims for 100 million Game Pass subscribers by 2030, but growth has slowed, particularly for the Xbox Series X|S.
    4. Phil Spencer acknowledged that not all gamers are interested in Xbox Game Pass, as some only play a few titles each year.
    5. Microsoft is exploring new markets, focusing on PC Game Pass and mobile gaming, to attract more subscribers amid declining console sales.

    Microsoft last disclosed its Xbox Game Pass subscription figures in February 2024, revealing that the service had reached 34 million subscribers. Recently, a user named Timur222 found a LinkedIn profile of a Microsoft employee that states a different number. The Program Manager mentioned in the profile claims that Game Pass has surpassed 35 million members. While this figure sounds impressive, it may indicate that Microsoft is falling short of its own growth targets.

    Reasons to Wait for Official Updates

    There are many reasons why gamers might want to hold off until Microsoft gives a formal update. It remains unclear when Kevin K. last updated the information on his LinkedIn page. Moreover, the 35 million+ figure is not precise, and the real number could be even higher. Nevertheless, critics suggest this adds to the argument that the growth of Xbox Game Pass subscriptions may have plateaued. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the service saw a surge in subscribers, prompting Microsoft to share progress reports more eagerly.

    Future Growth Goals

    Earlier reports indicated that Microsoft aimed for 100 million Game Pass subscribers by 2030. However, by early 2024, it became evident that the company might find it difficult to achieve this goal. Growth has noticeably slowed down, particularly for the Xbox Series X|S. Even Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, recently admitted that the service may not attract every gamer. Some users only engage with a few titles each year and don’t have the time to explore new Xbox Game Pass games every month.

    Exploring New Markets

    Due to falling console sales, Microsoft is targeting new audiences for Game Pass on other platforms. The outlook for PC Game Pass appears more promising than for console-specific services. Additionally, at the Xbox Games Showcase on June 8th, the company revealed the ROG Xbox Ally series. These new handheld consoles operate on Windows, with Microsoft focusing on enhancing the OS for gaming purposes. To gain new Xbox Game Pass subscribers, Microsoft will need to tap into the untapped potential of the mobile gaming market.

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  • Microsoft’s Surface Laptop 13 Now Ships Without Charger

    Microsoft’s Surface Laptop 13 Now Ships Without Charger

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Surface Laptop 13 does not include a power adapter, only a USB-C cable, requiring customers to purchase chargers separately.
    2. Microsoft’s decision to exclude chargers aims to reduce electronic waste in line with EU regulations but may inconvenience consumers.
    3. The pricing strategy for the Surface Laptop 13 is confusing, as it is priced higher than the faster Surface Laptop 13.8, which includes a power adapter.
    4. The Surface Laptop 13.8 offers better specifications (quicker processor, 120Hz display) at a lower price, raising questions about the value of the new model.
    5. If the pricing difference isn’t addressed, Microsoft may face challenges in selling the Surface Laptop 13.

    We’re taking a look at Microsoft’s latest device, the Surface Laptop 13. When we opened the box, we were taken aback to find that only a USB-C cable was included, with no power adapter available. A brief visit to the official German site confirmed that Microsoft has indeed decided to exclude the charger from the new Surface Laptop, Surface Pro 12, and even from the previous Surface Pro 13 models. Customers can now buy these chargers separately, with the 45W power adapter priced at €59 and the 65W adapter available for €89.

    Environmental Concerns

    Microsoft claims this decision is in line with EU efforts to cut down on electronic waste. While this may seem like a reasonable justification, it puts consumers in a tricky situation. Unlike the small 15-watt chargers that are common for smartphones, not everyone has a 45-watt adapter handy. This seems to suggest that Microsoft could be more focused on reducing costs and boosting profits instead.

    Confusing Pricing Strategy

    Honestly, the pricing tactics from Microsoft are quite perplexing, especially when you look at the Surface Laptop 13. They are actually charging more for the slower Surface Laptop 13. To put it into perspective, the Surface Laptop 13.8 has a quicker processor, a 120Hz display, and still includes a power adapter, but it is €20 cheaper on the company’s official store. Right now, on Amazon Germany, the base model of the Surface Laptop 13.8 is going for just €949. If this price difference isn’t adjusted soon, it seems likely that Microsoft will struggle to sell many of the new Surface Laptop 13. Stay tuned for our in-depth review of this laptop, which will be out in a few days.

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  • Microsoft Surface Arc Mouse Now Available in Two New Colors

    Microsoft Surface Arc Mouse Now Available in Two New Colors

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft introduced new colors for the Surface Arc Mouse: Violet and Ocean, alongside existing colors.
    2. The new colors are available for pre-order at $89.99 and will be released on May 20.
    3. The Surface Arc Mouse features a flexible, ambidextrous design that turns on and off by snapping and flattening.
    4. It includes touch area functionality for vertical and horizontal scrolling, enhancing user experience.
    5. The mouse connects via Bluetooth 4.1, runs on two AAA batteries with a lifespan of up to 6 months, and is compatible with Windows 10, Windows 11, and other Bluetooth devices.

    Microsoft has recently unveiled a new Surface Laptop and Surface Pro. However, these weren’t the only exciting updates. The tech giant from Redmond also introduced two fresh colors for the Surface Arc Mouse.

    New Colors Available

    The Surface Arc Mouse, which was initially offered in Black, Burgundy, Cobalt Blue, and Light Gray, now adds Violet and Ocean to its palette. You can pre-order these new colors right now on Microsoft’s online store or at Best Buy for the same price of $89.99 as the existing options. These new shades will hit the shelves on May 20.

    Evolution of the Surface Arc Mouse

    Since its launch in 2008, the Surface Arc Mouse has undergone significant changes, enhancing its design and features over the years. The latest version features a flexible and ambidextrous design. When you snap the mouse into its curved position, it powers on, and flattening it turns it off, making it convenient to carry in a bag or pocket. Besides the standard left and right click functions, this mouse includes a touch area for both vertical and horizontal scrolling.

    Connectivity and Compatibility

    The Surface Arc Mouse connects using Bluetooth 4.1 and runs on two AAA batteries, which can last for up to 6 months. Microsoft claims it is compatible with both Windows 11 and Windows 10 devices, but it should also function with other Bluetooth-enabled devices.

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  • Microsoft Surface Pro 12-Inch with 8-Core Snapdragon X Plus Chip

    Microsoft Surface Pro 12-Inch with 8-Core Snapdragon X Plus Chip

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft has officially launched the new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, powered by Qualcomm’s Arm-based processors, likely the Snapdragon X1P-42-100.
    2. The Surface Pro features a 12-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 2196 x 1464 pixels, a 90 Hz refresh rate, and claims up to 16 hours of battery life.
    3. The device has a maximum of 16 GB LPDDR5x RAM and 512 GB storage, with the base model starting at 256 GB; RAM is not upgradeable.
    4. It includes limited connectivity options with only two USB 3.2 Type-C ports and lacks a Surface Connect port, while Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 are supported.
    5. The Surface Pro is priced starting at $799, available for pre-order from May 20, and comes in three color options: Platinum, Ocean, and Violet.

    After a leak spoiled Microsoft’s surprise yet again, the company has finally revealed its new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop. Both devices are powered by Qualcomm’s Arm-based processors, although Microsoft has not disclosed which specific model is used. According to the earlier leak, it’s suggested that the chip is an 8-core Snapdragon X1P-42-100.

    Surface Pro Specifications

    For the Microsoft Surface Pro, it features a 12-inch LCD screen that boasts a resolution of 2196 x 1464 pixels, a refresh rate of 90 Hz, and a peak brightness of 400 nits, alongside 10-point multitouch capability. Microsoft claims it can achieve up to 16 hours of battery life, which seems reasonable for a Snapdragon processor. However, despite the long battery life, the internals of the Surface Pro are somewhat disappointing.

    Performance and Storage

    To begin with, the RAM is capped at 16 GB LPDDR5x (which cannot be upgraded), and the storage maxes out at 512 GB, while the base model comes with only 256 GB. The device lacks variety in terms of ports, providing only two USB 3.2 Type-C connections and no Surface Connect port. Other features of the Surface Pro include Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4. Similar to many current smartphones, there is no charger included in the box, but you can use any charger that is rated for 27 Watts or more to power your laptop.

    Pricing and Availability

    Microsoft has made the laptop available in three color options: Platinum, Ocean, and Violet. It has a weight of 1.5 lbs and includes two speakers rated at 2 Watts each. You can pre-order the Surface Pro starting on May 20, with prices beginning at $799, available on Microsoft’s website, Best Buy, and Amazon.

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  • Microsoft Launches New 13-Inch Surface Laptop with Key Downgrades

    Microsoft Launches New 13-Inch Surface Laptop with Key Downgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft has launched a more affordable 13-inch Surface Laptop variant, but it features significant reductions in specifications.
    2. The laptop boasts a long battery life of 23 hours for video playback, but lacks advanced display features like HDR and has a lower refresh rate of 60 Hz.
    3. It is equipped with an 8-core Snapdragon X Plus X1P-42-100 processor, which is less powerful compared to other Surface Laptop models.
    4. The device has limited memory options, with only 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage, compared to higher specifications in other models.
    5. Priced at $899, the new model is only $100 cheaper than the more advanced 13.8-inch variant, raising questions about its value.

    Alongside the new 12-inch Surface Pro, Microsoft has introduced a more affordable variant of the Surface Laptop. This model has some significant reductions in features, and the price cut isn’t enough to make up for those losses. The only highlight is its impressive claim of 23 hours of video playback on battery, which is slightly better than what the other two Surface Laptop models offer.

    Display and Performance

    The latest Surface Laptop variant sports a 13-inch 16:10 FHD (1,920 x 1,080) display with a maximum brightness of 400 nits. In comparison to its 13.8 and 15-inch counterparts, it refreshes at 60 Hz instead of 120 Hz and completely misses out on HDR capabilities. This, paired with the underwhelming 8-core Snapdragon X Plus X1P-42-100 processor, makes the laptop seem considerably less appealing than its more advanced models.

    Memory and Connectivity

    To add to the disappointment, the 13-inch Surface Laptop is restricted to a mere 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 512 GB of UFS storage, which is a stark contrast to the 64 GB and 1 TB options available in other models. In terms of connections, the Surface Connect port has been removed, replaced by two USB 3.2 Type-C ports and one USB Type-A port. It also supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for additional connectivity.

    Weighing in at 2.7 lbs, the 13-inch Surface Laptop comes in three different colors: Ocean, Violet, and Platinum. The starting price is $899, which is just $100 less than the 13.8-inch model that offers significantly better specifications. You can pre-order the laptop through retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and Microsoft’s own website. It will be generally available starting May 20.

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  • Microsoft Surface Pro: Redesigned 2-in-1 with 12-Inch Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft will present new Surface devices on May 6, including ARM-powered models.
    2. A smaller Surface Pro model with a 12-inch display is being introduced, reminiscent of the Surface Pro 3.
    3. The Surface Pro 12″ will not have a Surface Connect port and will include two USB 3.2 Type-C ports instead.
    4. The device will feature soldered flash storage options of 256 GB and 512 GB, with 16 GB of RAM and a Snapdragon X Plus chipset.
    5. The new Surface Keyboard for the 2-in-1 may lack magnets for a raised angle, limiting its usage to flat surfaces.

    Roland Quandt has gathered a wealth of information regarding Microsoft’s upcoming 2-in-1 device. The leaker has not only disclosed several specifications for the product but has also provided many images that look official. To summarize, Microsoft revealed earlier this week that they will present new Surface devices on May 6, following the launch of Intel Lunar Lake models of the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, along with a Surface USB4 Dock in January (currently priced at $199.99 on Amazon).

    Upcoming ARM-Powered Models

    This time around, it seems Microsoft is set to refresh its consumer lineup with at least two new models powered by ARM technology. According to previous rumors, one of these will be a smaller version of the Surface Pro, and Quandt has indicated it will feature a 12-inch display housed within a 274 x 190 x 7.8 mm body. This effectively marks a return to the display size of the Surface Pro 3. The Surface Pro 12″—as Microsoft refers to it in leaked promotional content—will have several compromises compared to the current Surface Pro 11.

    Notable Changes in Specifications

    For instance, the Surface Pro 12″ lacks a Surface Connect port. Instead, Microsoft has opted for two USB 3.2 Type-C ports, but there will be no power adapter included in the package. Moreover, it appears that Microsoft has transitioned to soldered flash storage, which will be available in 256 GB and 512 GB options, combined with 16 GB of RAM and a Snapdragon X Plus chipset.

    Recent benchmark leaks suggest that the Snapdragon chip could be Qualcomm’s X1P-42-100 model, rather than the X1P-64-100 that is utilized in the Surface Pro 11. Additionally, leaked marketing materials hint that the new Surface Keyboard for this 2-in-1 lacks the magnets needed for it to be positioned at a raised angle. Therefore, it might only be usable on a flat surface, similar to keyboard accessories made for rival tablets like the Galaxy Tab S series. Unfortunately, the price remains unknown at this point.

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  • New Microsoft Surface Laptop Leak: 13-Inch Design Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new Surface Laptop, launching on May 6, features a 13-inch display, smaller than existing models.
    2. It lacks an IR camera for Windows Hello, a Surface Connect port, and a 120 Hz display, which were available in previous models.
    3. The device includes a built-in fingerprint reader and two USB 3.2 Type-C ports, with a 60 Hz LCD display.
    4. RAM is limited to 16 GB, and storage options are only 256 GB or 512 GB of UFS flash storage, with no expandable options.
    5. The new Surface Laptop is expected to be priced lower than the current Surface Laptop 7, though exact pricing is not yet available.

    Roland Quandt has shared several details about Microsoft’s upcoming Surface Laptop ahead of its launch on May 6. This week, Microsoft confirmed the date for its next Surface event, and earlier this year, rumors suggested they were working on a more compact version of the Surface Laptop. Additionally, news about a new Surface Pro has surfaced, and we’ve discussed that in another article.

    Surface Laptop Size and Features

    To put it simply, the upcoming Surface Laptop won’t be as compact as the current Surface Laptop Go models. Quandt’s leaks indicate that this new device will feature a 13-inch display, which is smaller than the 13.8-inch and 15-inch options available with the existing Surface Laptop 7. Some may argue that Microsoft has made more sacrifices with the new Surface Laptop 13″ than with the Surface Laptop Go series.

    Specifications Breakdown

    For example, the Surface Laptop 13″ does not include an IR camera for Windows Hello, nor does it have a Surface Connect port or a 120 Hz display. According to the leaked promotional content, this device will have a built-in fingerprint reader, two USB 3.2 Type-C ports, and a 60 Hz LCD. It appears that the Surface Laptop 13″ will use the X1P-42-100 model of the Snapdragon X Plus, which is different from the X1P-64-100 variant found in the most affordable Surface Laptop 7 (currently priced at $940 on Amazon).

    RAM and Storage Options

    Furthermore, it looks like the Surface Laptop 13″ will be limited to 16 GB of RAM, unlike its larger counterparts. To make matters worse, the marketing materials mention only 256 GB or 512 GB of UFS flash storage. This suggests that Microsoft’s new Surface Laptop might not offer expandable storage options. Although pricing details haven’t been revealed yet, it is anticipated that this device will be priced lower than the current Surface Laptop 7.

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  • Elon Musk’s Grok AI Launching on Microsoft Azure AI Foundry

    Elon Musk’s Grok AI Launching on Microsoft Azure AI Foundry

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is working on integrating Elon Musk’s Grok AI model into the Azure AI Foundry for software developers.
    2. Grok will be accessible via Microsoft’s toolkit and hosted on its servers, requiring no additional training for developers.
    3. This integration is part of Microsoft’s strategy to offer diverse AI models and expand its AI platform.
    4. Microsoft is exploring multiple AI models, including those from Meta and Anthropic, amid ongoing tensions with OpenAI.
    5. No formal partnership between Microsoft and xAI has been announced, but more details may emerge at the upcoming Microsoft Build conference on May 19.

    Over the past few weeks, engineers at Microsoft have been working on incorporating Elon Musk’s Grok AI model into the Azure AI Foundry, as reported by The Verge. It is thought that software developers utilizing Azure AI Foundry will eventually have the ability to integrate Grok into their applications, alongside having direct access to the AI itself.

    Integration Details

    If the model makes its way into Azure, it will be accessible via Microsoft’s toolkit and hosted on its servers, eliminating the need for developers to undergo any training. However, the extent of the integration remains unclear at this stage. It’s important to note that Grok is not being trained on Microsoft’s servers, as xAI decided to create its own infrastructure after ending a previous agreement with Oracle.

    Broader Strategy

    This move aligns with Microsoft’s larger strategy to provide flexible access to a range of AI models. The company has been actively expanding its AI platform, incorporating as many externally developed models as it can. Earlier this year, they swiftly introduced DeepSeek’s R1 model. Moreover, Microsoft is already utilizing or exploring other AI models in internal tests, including those from Meta and Anthropic. Grok is a part of the same objective to diversify the offerings available on the Azure cloud service.

    Current Relationships

    The timing of this decision is particularly interesting, especially given the ongoing tensions between Microsoft and OpenAI. In addition, there are continuing legal disputes between Elon Musk and OpenAI, complicating matters further. While Microsoft maintains a close working relationship with OpenAI, it is also increasingly focusing on other artificial intelligence models.

    No formal announcements have been made yet regarding a partnership between Microsoft and xAI. However, with the Microsoft Build conference scheduled for May 19, there is a possibility that more details about this new collaboration and its specifics will be revealed at that event.

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  • Microsoft’s First Mini PC with Intel Processors: Windows 365 Link

    Microsoft’s First Mini PC with Intel Processors: Windows 365 Link

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Windows 365 Link is a small PC designed specifically for business users, priced at $349, but does not include a Windows 365 cloud subscription.
    2. It functions as an access terminal for Windows 365, relying on a strong internet connection to connect to a virtual machine in the cloud.
    3. Enhanced security is a key benefit, with Microsoft managing protection against external threats, while physical security is the responsibility of administrators.
    4. The device includes multiple connectivity options with three USB 3.2 Type-A ports, one USB Type-C port, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet, WiFi, and Bluetooth, along with a 3.5mm audio jack.
    5. The compact design measures 4.7 x 4.7 x 1.2 inches and features an Intel N250 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 64GB of UFS storage, complete with a Kensington Lock for added security.

    Microsoft has recently unveiled the Windows 365 Link. This device may appear to be a small PC, but it takes a different approach compared to standard compact desktop computers that are typically found in the consumer market. The Windows 365 Link is designed with business users in mind and is priced at $349, available through various authorized retailers. However, it’s important to note that the required Windows 365 cloud subscription is not included in this cost.

    Unique Functionality

    The key feature of the Windows 365 Link is that it doesn’t run Windows and applications locally. Instead, it serves as an access terminal for Windows 365. This means that users can connect to a virtual machine hosted in the cloud, which obviously necessitates a reliable internet connection. Microsoft highlights several benefits, such as enhanced security, since the company manages protection against outside threats. Administrators only need to ensure physical security for the device, and setting it up is said to take merely a few minutes.

    Hardware Specs

    On the hardware side, the Microsoft mini PC comes equipped with three USB 3.2 Type-A ports and one USB Type-C 3.2 port, alongside one HDMI and DisplayPort each. Users can connect to the internet via Ethernet or WiFi, and the Windows 365 Link also supports Bluetooth connectivity. Additionally, it features a 3.5mm audio jack for headsets. To top it all off, this compact computer measures a mere 4.7 x 4.7 x 1.2 inches and is powered by an Intel N250 processor, combined with 8GB of RAM and 64GB of UFS storage. A Kensington Lock is also included for added security.

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  • New Xbox Console Could Use Gaming-Friendly Windows UI Over SteamOS

    New Xbox Console Could Use Gaming-Friendly Windows UI Over SteamOS

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is developing a portable PC, Project Kennan, that aims to merge gaming console interfaces with a handheld Xbox running on Windows.
    2. A new Windows 11 preview build may introduce Xbox-style menus and improve the gaming experience on handheld devices.
    3. The Asus ROG Ally struggles to compete with the user-friendly Steam Deck, which offers a hassle-free gaming setup.
    4. Minor updates to Windows gaming features, like a minimized Game Bar and on-screen keyboard for controllers, are steps toward enhancing handheld gaming.
    5. Speculation exists about a new Xbox console launching in 2027, also running on Windows, with user-friendliness essential for success.

    Plans are moving forward for a portable PC from Asus that Microsoft is backing. Through what’s called Project Kennan, Microsoft is looking to combine the interface from its gaming consoles with a handheld Xbox that runs on Windows. But, as it stands, using the operating system can be tricky with just a d-pad and buttons. A new preview build of Windows 11 could show how Microsoft plans to tackle this issue.

    A Glimpse into Development

    According to a post on BlueSky, Windows Central has found an intriguing mention of “Gaming_GamingPosture_ChooseHomeApp.” This wording was spotted in a language pack linked to a Windows 11 development build. Users might be able to start their device in full-screen or pick from interface options that likely feature new Xbox-style menus. Depending on how well it’s done, this software could enhance the gaming experience on an Xbox handheld.

    Competing with the Steam Deck

    Up until now, devices like the Asus ROG Ally haven’t quite matched the ease of use found in the Steam Deck. With SteamOS, Valve’s device allows players to install and start games without much hassle. Unlike a desktop where finding games can be a chore, the Steam Deck is designed with controllers in mind. Even if other devices boast more powerful specs, many gamers lean toward the Steam Deck due to its user-friendly approach.

    Progress in Windows Gaming Features

    Microsoft has made minor tweaks to Windows and its gaming capabilities. The Game Bar can now minimize, making it easier to use on smaller screens. Plus, controllers can now enter search terms using an on-screen keyboard. However, these adjustments are only baby steps toward turning Windows handhelds into real gaming machines. The upcoming Windows 11 preview build will be the first chance to see how these changes perform on a handheld device.

    There’s speculation that Project Kennan could hint at another Xbox console being launched in 2027. Rumors suggest that Microsoft is working on a successor to the Xbox Series X. But, similar to the Asus handheld, this console would also run on Windows. How user-friendly it is with a controller will be crucial for its success.

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    New Xbox Console Could Use Gaming-Friendly Windows UI Over SteamOS
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