Microsoft Surface Pro rebooted: Faster, AI-ready, and now Qualcomm-powered

Microsoft unveiled the all-new Surface Pro, ditching numbers in favour of a fresh start. It's one of the first in a new generation of what Microsoft calls Copilot Plus PCs. This flagship device boasts the new Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors (Elite and Plus versions), promising a significant performance leap—up to 90% faster than its predecessor.

The Pro embraces the future with optional 5G connectivity and a long-lasting battery—up to 14 hours of video playback (though not quite reaching the Surface Laptop's 20 hours). It remains incredibly thin and light, maintaining its familiar size despite the internal overhaul.

An optional, stunning OLED display joins the mix, along with Wi-Fi 7 support. There's also a new Surface Pro Flex Keyboard that offers two USB 4 ports, improved sturdiness, and comes in four stylish colours, including a gorgeous new blue. Cameras get a major upgrade: an ultrawide, quad HD system on the front for AI applications and a 10-megapixel sensor on the back.

Prices start at $1,449.99 in Canada (LCD screen, X Plus processor, 16GB RAM, and 256GB storage). Upgrading to the X Elite processor and OLED display bumps the price to $2,149.99. The fully loaded version with 32GB RAM, 1TB storage, and platinum colour reaches $2,949.99.

The Surface Pro Flex Keyboard tackles user requests with a $489.99 price tag. It works both attached and detached, promising improved durability. Additionally, Microsoft offers a new option with bold keys and a larger touchpad for enhanced accessibility.

While the Surface Pro 9's design was solid, the Qualcomm processor in previous models caused performance issues with Windows on Arm. The new Snapdragon X processors aim to change that, potentially offering the best of both worlds: excellent battery life and powerful performance that rivals established chipmakers.

Microsoft positions the Surface Pro as the cornerstone of its AI-driven future. CEO Satya Nadella emphasizes building computers that "not only understand us but anticipate what we want," with Copilot Plus PCs being the "fastest, most AI-ready PCs ever built." The event also showcased new AI features like Recall and deeper Copilot integrations across Windows.

This revamped Surface Pro signals a new era for Microsoft's flagship device, focusing on powerful performance, AI readiness, and a renewed partnership with Qualcomm. You can check out the Surface Pro Flex Keyboard here.

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