In the final stretch of March, both Microsoft and Windows made headlines with some exciting developments. Over the course of this last week, further information surfaced regarding a compact Surface Pro model, while Microsoft also took action to prevent the use of a commonly-employed workaround that enabled setting up a Windows 11 PC without requiring a Microsoft account.
Simultaneously, Amazon marked the Surface Laptop 7 and Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 as frequently returned goods, while Bill Gates discussed which positions would remain secure against AI automation.
Gathering our hands-on assessments and weekly offers, there’s plenty to explore! Fortunately, this platform offers the latest scoops on Microsoft, Windows, and technology at large, all conveniently gathered in one place.
Smaller Surface Pro
There’s been talk for quite some time about the possible release of a 12-inch Surface Pro. Now, with its appearance in certification records, it seems almost certain that this device is indeed on its way.
According to reports, the upcoming device is anticipated to operate using Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X platform. This suggests it will be a higher-end model, featuring a metallic body and an exceptional display.
Instead of positioning the compact Surface Pro as a cost-effective, all-purpose 2-in-1 device with lesser specifications, it’s being marketed as a rival to the iPad Pro, focusing more on competitive features rather than affordability.
It’s anticipated that the upcoming Surface Pro will have a competitive price, probably falling between $800 and $900.
When Microsoft reveals the compact Surface Pro model, it’s likely they will also disclose a more compact version of the Surface Laptop.
Windows 11 without Microsoft account
Microsoft strongly encourages using a Microsoft account for Windows 11. In order to facilitate this, they have eliminated a commonly used workaround that enabled users to configure their computers without requiring a Microsoft account.
Instead of using the “bypassnro” command during the Windows setup process through the command prompt, it’s no longer possible due to a block put in place.
It was disheartening for many when Microsoft prevented the workaround that enabled users to establish a new computer without a Microsoft account. Fortunately, an alternative method has surfaced for those individuals.
Indeed, the recently introduced detour route seems to surpass its predecessor in many aspects. Notably, during the installation process of Windows 11, you’ll need to utilize the command prompt. This can be easily accessed by simply pressing the keys Shift + F10.
Our Senior Editor Zac Bowden explains the newly discovered bypass in detail.
Surface Laptop 7 & Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 returns
The Surface Laptop 7 from Microsoft has garnered favorable feedback, yet it has faced questioning of late. Notably, certain configurations of the Surface Laptop 7 are flagged by Amazon as frequently returned products.
The cautionary notice is located at the base of the laptop’s Amazon listing, and it’s stated that this notice shows up on products that have the highest frequency of returns within their specific product category.
It appears that Amazon doesn’t disclose the reasons behind product returns. Although it could be due to common issues, this lack of transparency does slightly tarnish the Surface Laptop 7’s image.
As a tech enthusiast, I wasn’t surprised when I learned that the Surface Laptop 7 wasn’t the only product flagged. It turns out that the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 has also earned a reputation for being often returned.
It’s not as shocking now, given that the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 tends to malfunction more frequently than expected. Our Senior Editor, Jez Corden, is currently using his third Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 unit.
Bill Gates on AI replacing humans
It’s possible that AI might take over your current position. Some professionals have expressed concerns that advanced AI systems could make specific roles obsolete, thereby facilitating automation and potentially replacing human employees.
Approximately half of the roles within the banking sector might be handled by artificial intelligence based on a current analysis. Moreover, Microsoft co-creator Bill Gates foresees AI taking over many tasks that were previously performed by humans.
However, Gates thinks that there are three professions which he considers resistant to AI automation: coding experts, energy sector professionals, and biology specialists.
Bill Gates’ assertion that coding jobs remain secure stands in sharp opposition to Jensen Huang’s advice for those interested in coding, who might want to explore diverse fields like agriculture, biology, production, or education.
In more recent times, artificial intelligence has become increasingly proficient in the area of programming. Should this trend continue, it’s likely that some coding tasks could potentially be automated by AI.
The question is will AI automation reduce the number of humans needed for any given project?
Windows Central Podcast
Every week, I join Daniel Rubino and Zac Bowden in their tech talk, where we delve into the biggest tech stories of the moment. In our latest chat, we tackled the high return rate of the Surface Laptop 7, the current status of Windows on Arm, and Microsoft’s upcoming lineup of Surface PCs.
Reviews
Our specialists get firsthand experience with the newest technology gadgets. Ranging from top-tier products by leading companies to unique add-ons from emerging startups, our group is always seeking out the finest technological innovations.
This week, we delved deeper into the Alienware 27 4K QD-OLED Gaming Monitor featuring a rapid 240Hz display on a compact screen. We also revisited the Xbox Series X to assess its performance in the year 2025.
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2025-03-30 14:09