Microsoft's First AI Surface PC: What Does It Offer?

Microsoft Corp. (MSFT) continued to point the company toward a generative artificial intelligence (AI) future with the launch Thursday of its first business-focused Surface PCs. Here are the new features you can expect to find in the Surface Pro 10 for Business and Surface Laptop 6 for Business. 

Intel Processors for a Faster Experience

The new Surface PCs are driven by Intel Corp. (INTC) Core ultra processors designed to provide powerful and reliable performance for business applications. Microsoft said its Surface Laptop 6 is two times faster than Laptop 5, while the Surface Pro 10 is up to 53% faster than the Pro 9. The enhanced speed and Neural Processing Unit (NPU) technology allow users to benefit from AI tools such as Windows Studio Effects and give business users and developers an opportunity to build their own AI apps and experiences.

New Copilot Shortcut Key

Microsoft said the Surface Pro 10 for Business is its most powerful model to date and includes a new Copilot key. The new addition to the Windows keyboard will allow shortcut access to the company's flagship Copilot AI tool. Other improvements to the keyboard include a bold keyset, larger font size, and backlighting to make typing easier, alongside a screen that is 33% brighter, according to the company. Microsoft 365 apps like OneNote and Copilot also will be able to use AI to analyze handwritten notes on the Surface Slim Pen.

Enhanced Video Calling and Accessories

For the Surface Pro 10, Microsoft has focused much of its upgrade on an enhanced video calling experience. A new Ultrawide Studio Camera is its best front-facing camera on a Windows 2-in-1 or laptop that features a 114° field of view, captures video in 1440 pixels, and uses AI-powered Windows Studio Effects to ensure presentation quality, Microsoft said. The company also has launched a series of new accessories for users who want an alternative to the traditional mouse. These include custom grips on the Surface Pen and an adaptive hub device that offers three USB ports.

Improved Security with Smart Card Tech

Finally, the new Surface PCs for business have added security features for business users, which include smart card reader technology. Surface users can access the PC with "chip-to-cloud" ID card security for authentication. Surface 10 users can get access to new near-field communication (NFC) reader technology that allows for secure, password-less authentication with NFC security keys.

Microsoft will host a special Windows and Surface AI event on May 20, at which Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Satya Nadella will outline the company's "AI vision” for software and hardware. Earlier this week, the company announced that it had hired DeepMind co-founder Mustafa Suleyman as the CEO of its growing AI unit.