New Surface Pro presented at the #MicrosoftEvent in Shanghai

May 23, 2017 12:17 GMT  ·  By

Microsoft has just unveiled the new Surface Pro at the company’s event in Shanghai, revealing a series of changes not only in terms of hardware and design but also regarding the entire lineup of devices.

Starting with this model, Microsoft drops the numbering naming system, so the device simply launches as the Surface Pro, which brings the 2-in-1 in line with the strategy that Apple embraced for its MacBook series.

This way, Microsoft most likely tries to prevent reaching high increments when the Surface Pro evolves, so instead of numbering every generation, the company will most likely use model years to refer to a specific generation.

In terms of hardware, Kaby Lake processors will power the new Surface Pro, and it goes without saying that the new i7 will power the top-of-the-line configuration. The m3 and the i5 versions of the Surface Pro will be completely fanless, so you won’t hear any noise when the cooling system kicks in.

Better screen than the MacBook

The 12.3-inch PixelSense display is the same as on the existing Surface Pro 4 generation, but Microsoft offers some minor upgrades, including new graphics cards. The m3 version will boast the Intel HD Graphics 615, while the i5 and the i7 will feature HD Graphics 620 and Iris Plus 640, respectively.

Microsoft obviously compared the device with the MacBook, saying that the Surface Pro’s display has 50 percent more pixels than a 12-inch Apple laptop.

One of the most existing upgrades on the Surface Pro is the new hinge, which can open to 165 degrees similar to the Surface Studio introduced last October. In fact, Microsoft even described this system as “Studio mode,” explaining that the device can now be used as a drawing board more easily on a desk.

And because drawing is such a critical part of Microsoft’s strategy, there’s also a new Surface Pen which supports 4096 points of pressure sensitivity and lacks the typical clip. Microsoft, however, admits that only 30 percent of the Surface Pro buyers actually used the pen, and this is why the new model will no longer feature this little accessory in the box.

13.5 hours of battery life

The Surface Pro is also the first device that Microsoft describes as a “laptop,” saying it can provide up to 13.5 hours of battery life, 50 percent more than the Surface Pro 4.

The Surface Pro keyboard has also been improved, now featuring 1.3mm of key travel, and again Microsoft compares it to Apple’s devices to show how good it is.

“Typing on the new Signature Pro Type Covers is easier, more, comfortable, more accurate, better sounding, and easier to do without looking than the MacBook and iPad Pro,” the firm explains.

Alcantara keyboards will also launch soon in several colors, as Microsoft seems to be very keen on using this premium fabric on more devices beside the Surface Laptop.

The new Surface Pro is already up for pre-order today, with shipping to start on June 15. Pricing starts at $799.99 for the most affordable version.

Check out the full Microsoft Surface Pro technical specifications here.

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