14 DAY TRIAL // There are no details as to when the next Surface models could launch, but according to some recent speculation, there’s not much to expect for the fifth generation.
This is because Microsoft isn’t planning any breaking changes on the Surface Pro 5, with Microsoft watcher Paul Thurrott saying that the device would not change the proprietary Surface power connector and come with Kaby Lake processors.
Truth be told, these details absolutely make sense, especially because upgrading the CPU line to Kaby Lake is a thing that all PC makers trying to offer the best possible performance do these days and Microsoft certainly doesn’t make any exception.
Every new Surface generation was running on the most powerful processors available at launch, so going for Kaby Lake is without a doubt part of Microsoft’s plans.
Surface power connector and USB Type-C
As for the power connector that’s retained on the upcoming Surface Pro 5, this is once again unsurprising. Microsoft most likely wants to keep compatibility of Surface accessories offered on the previous generations available on the Surface Pro 5 as well, though the company is expected to include some other connectivity options too.
PC manufacturers are slowly migrating to USB Type-C not only for data transfers but also for charging, yet Microsoft seems to be looking into a different strategy. While a USB Type-C will be offered on the Surface Pro 5, the proprietary power connector will also stick around for at least another generation.
As for the release date, there’s nothing confirmed here, though a hardware event this spring is still on the table for Microsoft. The company hasn’t yet started sending out invites for its event, which could indicate a May target date.
The Surface Book 2 is another device currently in the works at Microsoft, but as compared to the Surface Pro 5, there are rumors indicating this laptop is not yet ready and the company could hold it back until a later date, possibly considering a fall release date.