This week, Microsoft was in the spotlight with news about their new Surface devices, updated Windows 11 features, rumors of an upcoming Xbox handheld, and more trouble for Palworld in court. Here’s a roundup of the latest Microsoft-related stories.
New Surface Pro and Surface Laptop
This week, Microsoft introduced the 12-inch Surface Pro and the 13-inch Surface Laptop. Unlike their other Surface family members, these devices boast sleeker, more streamlined designs. However, they are not merely miniaturized computers; they offer much more than that.
The 12-inch Surface Pro model can be viewed as a spiritual successor to the Surface Pro X in many aspects. From its front, it boasts a 90Hz screen, while from the side, it reveals a sleek device that’s a mere 7.8mm thick.
As a devoted fan, I’m thrilled to share that both the 12-inch Surface Pro and the 13-inch Surface Laptop in my view, are powered by the advanced Snapdragon X Plus processors. Intriguingly, our Editor-in-Chief was left quite impressed by this chip when he had his early hands-on experience with the Surface Pro 12-inch.
To truly evaluate their durability, we’ll need to observe the Surface Pro 12-inch over a prolonged period of use, and compare it with long-term tests. As for the Surface Laptop 13-inch, given its inclusion of cooling fans, we’ll have to assess how its performance compares to other models in time.
Though the Surface Pro 12-inch and Surface Laptop 13-inch appear enticing, Microsoft’s recent announcement arrived alongside some disappointing information. The tech company has chosen to discontinue the $999 variants of both the Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7.
It seems that the change was probably intended to make the 12-inch Surface Pro and the 13-inch Surface Laptop more attractive, yet I must admit, I felt let down by it.
New Windows 11 features
In addition to the latest Surface devices, Microsoft unveiled a fresh wave of “next-generation Windows experiences.” Similarly, Copilot+ PCs are set to receive numerous updates, and all Windows 11 devices, including those that aren’t Copilot+ PCs, will also benefit from these new features.
With a Copilot+ PC, you’ll shortly get an AI assistant within Windows 11 to assist you in locating settings on your computer. Additionally, more functionalities will be added to the Click To Do feature.
An upcoming feature for Ask Copilot allows it to analyze an image displayed on your screen and subsequently generate text for use in Microsoft Word.
These applications from Microsoft – the Photos application, Paint, and Snipping Tool – are set to receive updates. The Photos application is going to get a new ‘relight’ feature, while Paint will incorporate the ability to select objects within it.
The new version of Snipping Tool will enable the application to smartly adjust captures so they snugly encompass the content.
In the near future, I’ll be witnessing some intelligent actions integrated into File Explorer. Similarly, Microsoft is planning to augment Notepad with AI capabilities, allowing it to generate text based on user prompts.
As an analyst, I find it noteworthy that the updated Notepad will incorporate some formatting options. This addition caters to users like myself who may prefer a more basic, non-AI-centric text editing experience over a more feature-rich platform.
Earlier this week, I delved into the latest Windows experiences and Copilot+ PC features. My write-up encompasses a substantial infographic detailing forthcoming features and their tentative release schedules for each new inclusion.
Xbox handheld leak
New information surfaced regarding the portable gaming system called Project Kennan. This gadget is a collaborative effort between ASUS and the Xbox team.
In a U.S. FCC submission, there seem to be depictions of a project known as Kennan. However, upon closer inspection, it seems that the filing contains pictures of not just one, but two devices. One of these devices strongly resembles the ASUS ROG Ally 2.
The black device you see depicted features a unique Xbox button along with an arrangement similar to the standard Xbox control scheme.
The upcoming ASUS gaming handheld device is anticipated to operate on Windows 11, with potential additional gaming-oriented functionalities in the pipeline.
There’s a chance we’ll learn more about the device at Computex on May 20, 2025.
Palworld
Due to a legal dispute between the creators of Palworld and Nintendo, they found it necessary to eliminate a feature, which was the ability for players to glide using their in-game companions (pals) in Palworld, via an upcoming update or patch.
To Palworld players, it’s nothing surprising that we might lose more features, as they’ve already experienced the absence of animations for capturing and summoning creatures in Palworld.
It’s well-known that Nintendo takes a firm stance on legal matters, suggesting there may be more alterations to come in Palworld. However, let’s take comfort in the fact that flying functionality remains unchanged for now.
Xbox backward compatibility
Microsoft’s job posting hints at a possible resurrection of the Xbox backwards compatibility feature. This program was initially introduced back in 2015 and continued until 2021.
The ability of Xbox to play older games (backward compatibility) is seen as a significant advantage by the gaming community. Not only does this allow these classic titles to be enjoyed on modern equipment, but they also receive enhancements like Frame Rate Improvement (FPS boost) and resolution scaling for an even better gaming experience.
It’s possible that we might witness the comeback of the well-liked software in the future. According to the information provided on Microsoft’s site, it’s listed:
Lend your expertise as a system and security engineer to shape the future of gaming with Xbox! Join our team to contribute to the development of innovative solutions that ensure game preservation. Your role will involve defining and setting security standards for game content protection, creating robust emulation systems, and ensuring a secure yet enjoyable gaming experience across devices. By working with us, you’ll play a crucial part in making it possible for gamers to access their favorite titles on various platforms, as per Xbox’s mission.
This week’s news about the Game Preservation program from Microsoft, which they announced last year, was particularly thrilling as we haven’t had many updates on it.
Windows Central Podcast
Every week, our leading editors Daniel Rubino (Editor-in-Chief) and Zac Bowden (Senior Editor) delve into the major headlines concerning Windows, Microsoft, Xbox, and technology. The latest episode of the Windows Central Podcast primarily explored the fresh Surface devices, but they also touched upon recent Qualcomm ad releases, upcoming features in Windows 11, and various other topics.
Reviews & Editorials
Deals of the Week
Read More
- WCT PREDICTION. WCT cryptocurrency
- LPT PREDICTION. LPT cryptocurrency
- Chrishell Stause’s Dig at Ex-Husband Justin Hartley Sparks Backlash
- Guide: 18 PS5, PS4 Games You Should Buy in PS Store’s Extended Play Sale
- The Bachelor’s Ben Higgins and Jessica Clarke Welcome Baby Girl with Heartfelt Instagram Post
- Gold Rate Forecast
- PI PREDICTION. PI cryptocurrency
- SOL PREDICTION. SOL cryptocurrency
- Grammys Pay Emotional Tribute to Liam Payne in First Honorary Performance
- Has Unforgotten Season 6 Lost Sight of What Fans Loved Most?
2025-05-12 01:49