Since all product cycles are running in sync again after the disruptive effects of the coronavirus, eyes are on Microsoft’s Surface product range in general and the Surface Book in particular. And the fourth premium phone could be like no other Surface Book.
The traditional laptop shape of a flip screen is twisted, lifted to create a revolutionary mobile computer. And it’s expected to arrive later this year.
Detail of the rear-facing autofocus camera on a Microsoft Surface Book 2 laptop computer, taken on … [] December 12, 2017. (Photo by Neil Godwin / T3 Magazine / Future via Getty Images)
The new feature is in line with one of Microsoft’s recently released patents describing a laptop hinge that allows a screen to be tilted as well as lifted from its traditional position, which is required of a normal hinge. The illustrations in this patent also show a keyboard and trackpad base that is remarkably similar to that of the Surface Book and Surface Laptop, right down to the Surface Connect port.
The Surface Book took a revolutionary approach to the hardware lineup of Microsoft. The detachable screen that enabled the Surface Book to become a de facto Surface tablet helped it stand out. Since then, the competition has brought similar concepts to market, and what about the “tablet plus detachable keyboard”? Format has become more popular. The Surface Book isn’t particularly unique right now.
And Microsoft has another Surface product that covers the laptop base that was originally the Surface Book’s only domain. The Surface Laptop (and the smaller Surface Laptop Go) can satisfy a much larger slice of the market, to specs that surpass the Surface Book.
And what about the hinge? Oddly enough, it wouldn’t be the first of its kind in the Surface range. The huge Surface Studio has the same tilt and lift hinge that allows the monitor to be adjusted at a convenient angle. What isn’t practical is portability – simply put, it’s not portable. But a laptop-sized device with a similar hinge?
If you have a brand in your portfolio that is known for inspirational design; when you have a design on the drawing board that does just that; and if you have a desktop product that synergizes with a new mobile product … then it’s time to update the Surface Book.
I’m known for my strong views on mobile technology, online media, and their impact on public awareness and existing businesses.
I’ve haunted this space
I’m known for my strong views on mobile technology, online media, and their impact on public awareness and existing businesses.
I’ve been following this space for over ten years, working with a number of publishers, publications, and media companies, some for extended periods of time, others for commissioned work, one-offs, or a series of articles or shows.
As Scotland’s first podcaster, I continue to be a prominent voice in the rise of podcasting and new media on the internet and have been nominated for the British Academy (BAFTA) for my annual coverage of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, along with contributions to Radio 5 Live, the BBC World Service, presents the coverage of the Edinburgh local radio about the general election.
You can find me on Twitter (@Ewan), Facebook, and Google Plus.
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