Yesterday, Microsoft unveiled a Surface laptop and streamlined operating software with the aim to regain ground in classrooms. Especially aimed at college students and evidently intended to set a performance bar for partners, the laptops will be available in markets with lower priced computers.
Powered by Windows 10 S operating system, the surface laptop will hit the market next month with the hardware starting at $999. It’s a 13.5-inch laptop that’s designed to work with the company’s new Windows 10 S operating system.
Terry Myerson, Windows, and Device group executive said, “Our goal with Windows 10 S is to develop the open vibrant partner-centric ecosystem we have today.”
“Windows 10 S is inspired by students and teachers, streamlined for simplicity, security, and superior performance. I believe it best reflects the soul of Windows.”
According to the Redmond, the Washington-based technology giant said, “Computers running on streamlined Windows 10 S will tap into online tools such as Microsoft Office 365 and will get applications that have been vetted at a Windows online shop.”
The surface laptop uses a fabric-Alcantara keyboard just like its premium Surface Pro 4 keyboard, with a 1.5mm travel for the backlit keys. As it runs Windows 10 S, the only apps available will be from the Windows Store unless you opt to upgrade to Windows 10 Pro.
Microsoft uses 13.5-inch PixelSense display with a 3:2 aspect ratio for this surface laptop.
Microsoft’s devices chief Panos Panay said, “This is the thinnest LCD touch model ever created and put into a laptop complete with 3.4 million pixels. The screen even supports Microsoft’s Surface Pen, so you can draw on the display just like other Surface devices.”
“The performance of this device is absolutely amazing. Microsoft is using the latest Intel Core i5 and i7 processors and claims the battery life will last for 14.5 hours as a result. Microsoft claims the Surface Laptop is faster than the i7 MacBook Pro, and it has “more battery life than any MacBook Air on the market today.”
There is also an integrated vapor chamber on the aluminum finish that cools down the Surface Laptop. For sound, there are integrated speakers underneath the keyboard so the sound comes from under your fingers.
The company has started taking preorders for Surface Laptop.