Nearly one year after teasing the device, Microsoft has made its Surface Duo official. While it technically works as a phone, Microsoft’s built the unit as an all-purpose multi-tasking product for professionals. Indeed, it’s like a shrunken down Surface experience that just happens to work as a phone, too.
Powered by Android 10, the device features a pair of 5.6-inch OLED displays connected by a narrow 360-degree hinge. Together they form an 8.1-inch display.
As one might expect, users can run multiple apps at the same time. Run them side-by-side and you’ll dial up the productivity. Or, in select instances, expand the app to let it take advantage of the larger tablet-like space.
Microsoft has taken steps to customize the software and suite of apps, giving it a blend of the best of Android and Windows. Included are Office, Outlook, OneNote, Edge, and a host of other titles, many of which are built with two screens in mind.
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Key hardware includes a Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor, 6GB RAM,and a choice of 128GB/256GB storage.
Additionally, the Surface Duo has USB-C, video output via DisplayPort HDMI, a fingerprint reader, and an 11-megapixel camera with 1080p video conferencing/4K video capture. A 3,577mAh battery runs the show and supports 18W fast charging.
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While it doesn’t have the hardware that rivals flagship phones, the Microsoft Surface Duo is more about the capabilities. It’s definitely not for everyone and has a very targeted audience.
The Surface Duo will launch September 10 with a $1,399 starting price. It supports 4G networks for AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. Pre-orders are available now at Microsoft’s website.