Microsoft announced the release of its first AI-powered Surface PCs for businesses, the Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6. These devices are equipped with Intel Core Ultra processors and Neural Processing Units to power advanced artificial intelligence applications and experiences. Set to be available in April, Microsoft aims to make its Copilot AI tools a standard for businesses in an effort to compete with other enterprise tech providers such as Google, Salesforce, and Amazon. The company also highlighted ongoing integrations of AI features into Microsoft software including Windows, Teams, OneNote, and other widely used applications.
One of the key features of Microsoft’s new Surface devices is the dedicated Copilot hardware key that was announced earlier this year. Pricing for these devices starts at around $1,200, making them an attractive option for businesses looking to incorporate AI capabilities into their workflows. Additionally, Microsoft will be making its Microsoft Adaptive Accessories available for businesses, further enhancing the user experience for those utilizing these devices. This move demonstrates Microsoft’s commitment to innovating in the AI space and providing businesses with cutting-edge technology solutions.
The unveiling of these new devices comes at a critical time for Microsoft’s Surface business, which has experienced a recent slump in revenue. In the six months ending Dec. 31, 2023, revenue in the company’s devices division decreased from $2.9 billion to $2.4 billion compared to the previous year. This drop in revenue may have played a role in the departure of Panos Panay, the former chief product officer in charge of Microsoft’s Windows & Devices business, who left the company last year to lead Amazon’s Devices & Services business. Microsoft’s introduction of the Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 signals a renewed focus on innovation and growth within its devices division.
As part of its broader strategy, Microsoft recently named Mustafa Suleyman, the co-founder of DeepMind and former Google VP of AI, to lead a new organization called Microsoft AI. This organization will focus on consumer AI products and research, further solidifying Microsoft’s commitment to advancing AI technology across its product lineup. By leveraging Suleyman’s expertise and experience in the AI space, Microsoft aims to drive innovation and create new opportunities for AI integration within its products. This move demonstrates Microsoft’s proactive approach to staying at the forefront of AI development and deployment in the tech industry.
Overall, Microsoft’s announcement of the Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 represents a significant step forward in integrating AI capabilities into its product lineup. With features such as Intel Core Ultra processors and Neural Processing Units, these devices are equipped to power advanced AI applications and experiences for businesses. By making its Copilot AI tools a standard for businesses and offering Microsoft Adaptive Accessories, the company is positioning itself as a leader in AI-powered devices. With changes in leadership and a renewed focus on AI innovation, Microsoft is poised to drive growth and revenue in its devices division while continuing to push the boundaries of AI technology across its product ecosystem.
