The new Surface Laptop (13-inch) and Surface Pro (12-inch) will go on sale from May 20, priced at $899 and $799 respectively.

Both devices are built with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Plus processor and are part of Microsoft’s move to expand access to its AI-powered tools without the high cost that typically comes with performance-grade laptops. Until now, most machines capable of running Microsoft’s Copilot+ features were priced over $1,000.

The Copilot+ tag means Microsoft built these PCs to handle tasks like drafting documents using natural prompts or changing system settings by asking a simple question. 

These features run directly on the device and don’t require an internet connection, which reduces dependence on cloud services and boosts privacy and speed.

Compared to last year’s models, Microsoft has cut prices and reduced screen sizes. The Surface Laptop now has a 13-inch display instead of 13.8 inches, and the Surface Pro has dropped from 13 to 12 inches. 

Despite the smaller form factor, battery life has improved. The Surface Laptop can now manage up to 16 hours of web browsing. That’s a three-hour increase over the 2024 version.

These changes, however, haven’t guaranteed demand. According to Raymond James analyst Andrew Marok, “Checks suggest limited appetite for investing in AI PCs given the lack of clarity on the value-added proposition and as new business cases and tools develop.”

Still, Microsoft is betting on utility and timing. With support for Windows 10 ending in October and a wave of users expected to upgrade, the company is positioning these new devices as the right alternative.

Surface devices are not dominant in the PC market, but they serve as showcases for Microsoft’s software and hardware initiatives. The new models maintain the familiar Surface designs—minimal bezels, sleek bodies, and detachable keyboards—while pushing AI capability further into everyday computing.

Each machine features a dedicated Copilot key on the keyboard for quick access to AI tools. Wi-Fi 7 support, upgraded cameras, improved microphones, and the ability to connect two 4K displays make them versatile for both remote work and entertainment.

Pavan Davuluri, Microsoft’s Corporate vice president for Windows and Devices, summed up the aim during a press briefing: “We think these new Surface Pro and laptops are for a set of customers for whom affordability is going to be important.”

Microsoft is also using this launch to promote its “Recall” feature, which remembers what has been displayed on screen and helps users search by simply describing past activities. Another update, “Click to Do,” gives actionable suggestions when users select screen content.

Both models are available for preorder now and will come in three colours: platinum, ocean, and violet.

Copilot+ PCs are the fastest, most secure Windows PCs ever built. They come with a great combination of powerful new silicon, all-day battery life, and access to cutting-edge AI models. 

Benchmarking tests show Copilot+ PCs outperform previous Windows machines by up to 20x faster for AI workloads and achieve up to 100x greater efficiency when running AI tasks. 

This means real-world performance gains, even surpassing Apple’s MacBook Air 15-inch by 58% in sustained multithreaded performance. Asided raw power, Copilot+ PCs are designed to last, giving 22 hours of local video playback on a single charge.

Copilot+ PCs leverage strong processors and advanced AI models to boost a new set of on-device experiences.

Imagine effortlessly finding what you’ve seen on your PC before, thanks to a system called Recall that mimics human memory by organizing information based on connections and associations you create. 

Recall helps you rediscover what you need quickly and intuitively in folders or emails.

Again, another enhancement Cocreate lets you generate and refine AI images directly on your device, in real-time. Simply combine your ideas with text prompts and watch as the artwork comes to life. Cocreate allows for easy editing, making it easy to refine your vision and bring your artistic ideas to fruition.

The world is becoming increasingly connected, and language barriers can sometimes hinder communication. Live Captions removes that obstacle by offering real-time translation of audio from over 40 languages into English subtitles.

Whether you’re catching a podcast from another country, watching an international sporting event, or collaborating with colleagues across the globe, Live Captions ensures you can understand and be understood.

Finally, Copilot+ PCs enhances your video call experience with enhanced Windows Studio Effects. These features take the guesswork out of looking and sounding your best. 

Automatic adjustments like portrait light ensure you’re always well-lit, while noise reduction eliminates background distractions. Virtual backgrounds let you personalize your call environment, making video conferencing a more seamless and professional experience.

Microsoft is focused on developing safe, and secure AI. All Copilot+ features adhere to their responsible AI principles.

The tech giant has collaborated with leading PC manufacturers – Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung – to provide a range of Copilot+ PCs starting at $999. These devices offer a variety of features and designs to suit your needs.

Copilot+ is placing AI at the center of the computing experience. Microsoft anticipates further collaboration with chipmakers like Intel and AMD to expand the Copilot+ industry in the future.

Availability

Pre-orders for Copilot+ PCs had began, with devices hitting shelves on June 18th. Visit Microsoft.com or your preferred retailer to learn more and pre-order yours today.