Key Takeaways:
- Microsoft announced Intel-powered business variants of the Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 Copilot+ PCs.
- A 5G version of the Surface Laptop for Business is set to launch later this year.
- Microsoft’s Pluton Key Storage Provider (KSP) will enhance cryptographic security.
Microsoft announced today new business editions of its Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 Copilot+ PCs with Intel x86 Core Ultra processors (Series 2). Additionally, a 5G-enabled variant of the Surface Laptop for Business is set to launch later this year.
In September 2023, Microsoft introduced business editions of the Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7, both powered by Qualcomm chips. However, enterprise users might still opt for Intel CPUs to maintain the best app and driver compatibility.
“Starting Feb. 18, business customers can choose between Intel and Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs from Surface, and experience the most advanced, intelligent and secure PCs available across both platforms,” said Nancie Gaskill, General Manager of Surface Business.
Surface Laptop 7 for Business
The new Surface Laptop 7 for Business comes with the latest Intel Core Ultra processors with the 13.8″ and 15 ” display options. It offers Wi-Fi 7 support, up to 32 GB of memory, and up to 1 TB of storage. Microsoft promises up to 22 hours of video playback and up to 14 hours of active web usage.
The Surface Laptop 7 for Business also features an anti-reflective touchscreen display and Windows Hello support for passwordless authentication. Regarding the ports selection, both models come with 2 USB-C ports, a Surface Connect port, a USB-A port, and a headphone jack, though the 15-inch model has an additional MicroSDXC Express card reader and MicroSDXC card reader and an optional smart card reader.
The Surface Laptop 7 for Business with Intel Core Ultra processors starts at $1,499.99. You can pre-order the new Surface Pro today on Microsoft’s website and it will start shipping on February 18. A 5G version of the Surface Laptop 7 for Business is also coming later this year.
Surface Pro 11 for Business
The new Surface Pro 11 for Business uses the same Intel Core Ultra processors as the new Surface Laptop. It can be configured with Intel Core Ultra 5 or Ultra 7 chips, up to 32GB of RAM, and up to 1TB of storage. The tablet also comes with an optional 13” OLED 120Hz display and a Surface Pro Flex keyboard that can work wirelessly.
The other highlights of the new Surface Pro include a 1440p Quad HD camera with an ultrawide field of view that supports Windows Studio Effects, a 10 MP Ultra HD rear-facing camera, 2W stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, and dual Studio mics with voice focus. The tablet includes a built-in Windows Hello Camera and a built-in NFC reader for passwordless authentication.
Additionally, the new Surface Pro 11 for Business comes with 2 USB-C ports, a Surface Connect port for charging, and a Surface Pro Keyboard port. It should offer up to 28 percent faster performance, up to 98 percent faster graphics performance, as well as up to 2x battery life on Microsoft Teams calls compared to Surface Pro 9.
The Surface Pro 11 for Business starts at $1,499.99, and it will also start shipping on February 18. You can already pre-order the new Surface Pro 11 today on Microsoft’s website.
The new Surface for Business Copilot+ PCs support new AI features that are currently available in preview, including Click to Do and Windows Recall. There is also an AI-powered search experience in File Explorer, allowing users to find files with natural language commands.
Surface USB4 Dock
Microsoft also announced the launch of a new Surface USB4 Dock that will also be available on February 18. The new Surface Dock starts at $199.99 and comes with two USB-C, one USB-A, Ethernet, and HDMI ports.
“This new dock delivers fast charging with the new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop with up to 65W power passthrough and enables fast data transfer of up to 40 Gbps. Dual 4K monitor. support, via USB-C or HDMI transforms your workspace into a three-screen powerhouse,” Gaskill added.
Microsoft Pluton Key Storage Provider (KSP)
Lastly, the new Surface Copilot+ PCs come with Microsoft’s Pluton chips, which enhance security by integrating directly into the CPU to protect sensitive data like user identities, passwords, and encryption keys from potential attacks.
Microsoft is also developing a Key Storage Provider (KSP) to further improve Pluton’s capabilities, enhancing the storage and management of cryptographic keys. This update will be available on Intel Core Ultra (Series 2), Snapdragon X Series, and AMD Ryzen AI 300 chips, with more details expected in the coming months.