Microsoft made headlines this week with its highly anticipated Windows event in New York City. However, the event took place without the presence of longtime division head Panos Panay, raising questions about his future with the company.
Stepping in for Panay, CEO Satya Nadella took the stage to announce the latest hardware offerings from Microsoft. The focus of the event was on two new devices: the Surface Laptop Go 3 and the Surface Laptop Studio 2.
The Surface Laptop Go 3 boasts impressive features, including a 12th-gen Intel Core i5 CPU and Intel Iris Xe graphics. Microsoft claims that this device offers an 88% speed boost compared to its predecessor. Weighing less than 2.5 pounds, the Laptop Go 3 is lightweight and portable. It also sports a 12.4-inch touchscreen, Studio mics, Dolby Atmos–tuned speakers, and promises 15 hours of battery life.
On the other hand, the Laptop Studio 2 offers a larger 14.4-inch display and is powered by a 13th-gen Intel Core H-class processor. It also provides optional Nvidia GeForce RTX graphics for enhanced performance. Users will appreciate the USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB-A port, and microSD card reader included in the laptop’s design.
Excitingly, both the Surface Laptop Go 3 and the Surface Laptop Studio 2 are available for pre-order now, with shipping set to begin on October 3. The Laptop Go 3 starts at a competitive price of $799, while the Laptop Studio 2 is priced at $1,999.
However, these product launches come at a time of uncertainty within the division, as rumors circulate about Panos Panay’s departure. Reports suggest that budget cuts and the cancellation of experimental Surface devices may have contributed to his departure. Microsoft has yet to confirm or deny these reports, leaving fans and industry insiders speculating about the future of the division.
Despite the absence of Panay, Microsoft’s Windows event showcased exciting new devices that are sure to captivate the market. With their powerful processors, stunning displays, and cutting-edge features, the Surface Laptop Go 3 and Surface Laptop Studio 2 are poised to be game-changers in the laptop market.
