Surface Duo FAQ: Everything you need to know about Microsoft's first dual-screen Surface
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Questions answeredSurface Duo FAQ: Everything y'all need to know well-nigh Microsoft'southward first dual-screen Surface
Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central
Microsoft'due south Surface Duo is now officially available. While we know a lot nigh Microsoft's dual-screen Android device, there are likewise many questions.
Here is our compiled list of the almost frequently asked questions (FAQ) nigh Surface Duo, including all we know (so far).
Preorder today
Microsoft Surface Duo
Ii screens are ameliorate than ane
Microsoft delves into the hereafter of foldables with an ambitious dual-screen device, featuring ii ultra-thin 5.six-inch AMOLED displays bound by a 360-degree hinge. This pocketable inking-enabled Android smartphone marks the latest in the Surface lineup, geared for mobile productivity.
When do Surface Duo preorders begin?
Pre-orders begin August 12, 2022, in the U.s.a..
What is Surface Duo release date?
Shipping is expected for September ten, 2022.
What is the Surface Duo cost?
The price for Surface Duo is $ane,399 for the 128GB model.
The 256GB edition costs $ane,499.
Where can you buy Surface Duo?
Surface Duo will be available both online and concrete stores (where applicable) from:
- Microsoft Store
- Best Buy
- AT&T
Will Surface Duo be on display in stores?
Aye.
Both AT&T and Best Buy stores will have Surface Duo on brandish for users to interact with beginning Friday, August 28th. Presumably, users can agree the device and play with the software just similar other smartphones on display.
Can I trade in my old phone for a discount?
Yes.
Microsoft is accepting trade-ins of sometime tablets, phones, and laptops. Users can utilise the Microsoft Store Trade-in Programme online and become up to $700 off the Surface Duo cost. Microsoft accepts old Apple tree iPhones, BlackBerry, Google, Nokia, Samsung, Razer phones, and more than. Trade-in value depends on the year of the device and condition.
More info well-nigh the program can be found here.
What is Microsoft Store return policy on Surface Duo?
lx days.
No questions asked, no restocking fee. Item must exist in its original packaging and "similar new" status.
Microsoft outlines its "Surface hope", where it details its Microsoft Shop policies on Surace purchases.
It includes:
- Fast, complimentary shipping (2-3 days)
- 60-day return policy: Must be returned as "similar new" in its original packaging
- sixty-day low price promise: If Microsoft drops the cost of the Surface yous purchased within 60 days, it will refund the departure
- xc days free back up: Free technical telephone aid for your device
Is there education or military machine discounts for Surface Duo?
No.
Typically, Microsoft offers a x% discount for eligible students, parents, teachers, and the military. Even so, as of right at present, no such deduction is existence provided with Surface Duo.
Will Surface Duo be available via Surface All Access?
No.
Microsoft is not making Surface Duo available through its Surface All Access program. Nevertheless, Microsoft offers financing options, including 0% interest payments over 24 months, through the visitor directly and other options via third-party retail and reseller partners.
What countries is Surface Duo bachelor in?
United States only (for at present).
In a argument to Windows Fundamental, Microsoft said, "Initially, Surface Duo volition be available in the US. We'll share more than information about marketplace expansion at a later date." That sounds similar Microsoft is testing the market with the US first, and may expand later if Surface Duo is well received, and sales see expectations.
Can Surface Duo exist ordered overseas?
Yes, (unofficially).
Microsoft is not selling Surface Duo straight to customers exterior of the US. However, at that place are third-party sites like Big Apple Buddy, who tin can facilitate the transaction. The process is uncomplicated: You order from Big Apple Buddy, they society from a U.s. retailer, they ship yous Surface Duo. Of course, such a service requires a $50 fee, plus FedEx shipping, and whatever import fees or taxes adding close to an actress $200 to Surface Duo's retail cost.
Is Surface Duo a phone?
Yep and no.
Yep, Surface Duo can make phone calls only like a regular smartphone. Users rotate the 360-degree swivel back on itself and operate Surface Duo like whatever unmarried-screen device. It uses the default Google telephone app and supports global LTE for voice and information.
It can also ship and receive SMS text messages.
However, Microsoft refers to Surface Duo every bit a "new dual-screen device, purpose-built for mobile productivity." According to press materials, "Microsoft saw an opportunity to create something new with Surface Duo - not to reinvent the phone, but to inspire people to rethink how they desire to employ the device in their pocket."
In that sense, Surface Duo is more than than a phone, as it is a new form of productivity. Just, pragmatically speaking, it is still technically a phone.
Who is Surface Duo for?
Surface Duo is for anyone who wants to exist more productive while mobile. Specifically, those who notice they tin can't get enough work washed on just a smartphone and don't always take a laptop with them. With dual screens, Microsoft believes, like, with dual-screen PC desktop setups, people will be able to get more work done.
On a more key level, Microsoft says Surface Duo is for Surface and Microsoft fans, and those who live in the Microsoft ecosystem. Microsoft's master product officer Panos Panay has stated that Surface Duo is "the Microsoft you love and the Android you know."
Long term, Microsoft hopes to meet dual-screen usage abound with subsequent Surface Duo releases, or even from Android OEMs, who may make like devices.
Can Surface Duo fit in your pocket?
Yep, it should!
While anybody has unlike size pockets and pants, Surface Duo is only slightly taller than a standard US Passport and nearly the same width. While it is a wide phone, it is shorter than most mod smartphones and relatively sparse.
You can run across size comparisons between Surface Duo and the iPhone xi, jeans front end pocket, and whether it fits into a blazer's inner pocket here.
Will there be a Surface Duo 2?
Microsoft has not publicly announced any plans for Surface Duo ii.
However, our reporting from sources familiar with the project have told u.s. that work on Surface Duo two is well underway. Like every other smartphone OEM, Microsoft is like to follow a yearly-upgrade cadence, making a belatedly 2022 release for Surface Duo two a possibility.
In July 2022, Microsoft bought Movial. Movial was contracted to help Microsoft build the customized Android feel for Surface Duo. Microsoft is now bringing those employees in-business firm to Microsoft to streamline development for the next-gen of Surface Duo.
Surface Duo two is likely to set up many of Surface Duo'due south initial shortcomings, including the lack of NFC, Qi, and merely 1 photographic camera. However, nothing is yet finalized.
What version of Android does Surface Duo run?
Android x.
Surface Duo is expected to get Android 11 later on afterward validation.
Will Surface Duo go regular Android OS updates?
Yes. For 3 years.
Microsoft is committed to updating Surface Duo with regular Android and security updates. Specifically, the Surface Duo volition receive both Os and security updates for three years, according to Microsoft.
Volition Surface Duo have an unlockable bootloader?
Yes.
Microsoft has confirmed with XDA that Surface Duo has an unlockable bootloader.
Such a movement opens the door for users to mod, root, or install a custom ROM to Surface Duo. It is unclear if this action voids the warranty, simply typically it does not. It is also unclear if i could force Windows 10 or Windows 10X on it, though surely someone in the XDA community may try afterward its release.
Does Surface Duo have any unique security features?
Yes.
As Microsoft has congenital Surface Duo with professionals and businesses in heed, the device "utilizes Android security features at the OS level and at the Google services layer."
Specifically, Surface Duo has:
- Custom engineered UEFI
- Verified Boot
- App separation
- Google Play Protect
- Microsoft Defender ATP (InTune only)
More information and details about Duo's security can exist establish in Microsoft'south documentation.
Listing of Microsoft Surface Duo specs
| Category | Surface Duo |
|---|---|
| OS | Android 10 |
| Display | Single: 5.6 inch (1800x1350), 401 ppi, four:iii aspect ratio Opened: viii.1 inch (2700x1800), 401 ppi, iii:2 attribute ratio Type: AMOLED Wide colour gamut: 100% SRGB and 100% DCI-P3 Corning Gorilla Glass |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 |
| Network | WiFi-v 802.11ac (two.4/5GHz) Bluetooth 5.0 LTE: 4x4 MIMO, Cat.eighteen DL / Cat 5 UL |
| SIM | Nano SIM + eSIM (no eSIM on AT&T model) |
| Network bands | FDD-LTE: 1,2,3,4,five,seven,8,12,13,14,19 20,25,26,28,29,30,66 TD-LTE: 38,39,forty,41,46 WCDMA: i,two,5,8 GSM/GPRS: GSM-850, E-GSM-900, DCS-1800, PCS-1900 |
| Memory | 6GB RAM |
| Storage | 128GB or 256GB UFS 3.0 |
| Expandable storage | None |
| Camera | 11MP, ƒ/2.0 i.0um, PDAF, 84.0° diagonal FOV Optimized with AI for front and rear |
| Audio | Mono speaker Dual mic with noise suppression and echo cancellation Qualcomm aptX Adaptive |
| Security | Fingerprint |
| Ports | 1x USB-C 3.1 |
| Bombardment | 3,577mAh Up to 15.v hours of Local Video Playback Up to 10 days of Standby Time Up to 27 hours of Talk Time Fast Charging using 18W in-box ability supply |
| Pen | Surface Pen (not included) |
| Dimensions | Open: 145.2mm (H) x 186.9mm (Due west) x iv.8mm (T) Airtight: 145.2mm (H) x 93.3mm (W) x nine.9mm (T at hinge) |
| Weight | 250 grams |
Source: Microsoft
What is included with Surface Duo?
Surface Duo ships with the post-obit in the box:
- Surface Duo
- Surface Duo Bumper (Color: Glacier)
- Surface Duo USB-C Power Supply (18w) + Cable
- Quick Start Guide Warranty and Compliance Guide
- SIM Ejector tool
Tin can the protective bumper be removed and reused?
Microsoft includes a matching glacier-white bumper in the box with Surface Duo. The bumper allows Surface Duo to be opened in both directions without interference, but also offers protection to its edges and corners.
The bumper is held on by two-mode record. Users can remove the example, but multiple reapplications will eventually wear out the stickiness. Presumably, using some third-party two-mode tape can be used if this were to occur.
Source: Microsoft
Are there more than colors for case bumpers?
As of August 25th, Microsoft just has a white bumper, which is included with every Surface Duo. However, our sources have said 3 more colors will be offered later launch, including:
- Ember (vivid blood-red)
- Ice Bluish
- Graphite (dark grey/black)
These colors exactly match electric current Surface Pro Signature Type Covers. Pricing is expected to be $forty per bumper.
Glass.
Surface Duo's dual displays and outside vanquish are all Corning Gorilla Glass. The outer frame is ceramic.
Microsoft likely uses glass on the exterior to help with processor and chip thermal regulation (drinking glass does not transfer oestrus like metal) and longevity (metal cases tin can scratch or dent). Glass also feels very premium.
Does Surface Duo have an AMOLED brandish?
Yes.
Surface Duo has ii AMOLED 5.6 inch (1800x1350) displays with 441 pixel-per-inch (ppi) and Corning Gorilla Glass for protection. Each brandish has a 4:3 aspect, but when the 2 screens are combined, information technology results in an 8.1 inch (2700x1800) screen with a three:ii attribute ratio and 441ppi.
The displays support wide colour gamut and are calibrated for 100 percent sRGB and 100 percent DCI-P3. The 360-degree hinge lets the displays fold back on each other, assuasive users to brand phone calls or use the Surface Duo similar a traditional smartphone.
Source: Microsoft
The tech behind the screens is proprietary and unique to Surface Duo. Microsoft goes into some item virtually what makes the Duo's screen special:
Duo uses a custom pixel stack and each prepare of panels undergo all-encompassing color and luminance calibration. We developed a new manufacturing processes to actively marshal pixels across screens. The proprietary digitizer algorithms fifty-fifty consider when y'all are crossing the seam with your finger, making it feel similar it's one fluid screen. Within the Dynamic 360-degree swivel, custom designed cables connect the displays to work together, beyond a multifariousness of postures. We designed a completely new dual organisation architecture to deliver optimal operation and battery within the thinnest, lightest pattern possible. Every detail from the layout of the motherboard and multi-cell bombardment to the placement of inertial sensors, mics, and antennas was purposefully designed to unlock an entirely new interaction model across 2 screens.
Does Surface Duo accept an ever-on-display (AOD)?
No.
Currently, Surface Duo does not accept an e'er-on-display (AOD). However, there is consideration to add one after on through an OS software update every bit there is, reportedly, no technical limitation preventing information technology.
What LTE bands does Surface Duo support?
The Surface Duo supports the post-obit global bands:
- FDD-LTE: one,2,3,four,5,7,8,12,13,14,19, 20,25,26,28, 29,xxx,66
- TD-LTE: 38,39,40,41,46
- WCDMA: i,2,5,8
- GSM/GPRS: GSM-850, E-GSM-900, DCS-1800, PCS-1900
Does Surface Duo back up GPS?
Yes.
Surface Duo supports the post-obit GPS modes:
- GPS
- Galileo
- GLONASS
- BeiDou
- QZSS
Is Surface Duo carrier and SIM unlocked?
Yes.
The version sold straight past Microsoft, and Best Buy is carrier and SIM unlocked. That version supports a Nano-SIM and eSIM.
The AT&T model, however, is carrier locked and lacks eSIM.
Can eSIM and physical SIM exist agile at the same time (dual-SIM)?
No.
While the unlocked version of Surface Duo supports eSIM (electronic) and nanoSIM (physical), only 1 SIM for calls, texts, and data tin can be active at one time.
Which U.South. carriers does Duo work on?
The Surface Duo is confirmed to piece of work on all major carriers, including:
- AT&T (unlocked, or AT&T-locked model)
- Verizon
- T-Mobile/Sprint
If customers buy the unlocked model, it should besides work on any mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) e.thousand., Mint Mobile, Heave Mobile, etc.
Can Sprint customers use Surface Duo?
Yes.
Even so, since the companies have merged, customers will need to acquire a T-Mobile SIM to function.
Does Surface Duo support Wi-Fi calling?
Yes.
Surface Duo supports native Wi-Fi calling allowing it to piece of work on all networks that support the feature. The setting is off by default, but information technology is part of the native Android experience where users tin can enable it and prioritize using Wi-Fi over cellular and vice versa.
Does the Surface Duo back up 5G?
No.
The Surface Duo does not support 5G. It runs on a Snapdragon 855 rather than the newer Snapdragon 865 or other processors that back up 5G. That means if you're trying to decide which carrier to utilise the Surface Duo on, 5G isn't a factor.
The Surface Duo supports the 4G bands required to piece of work on all major networks in the U.S., but it doesn't have any 5G capabilities.
Does Surface Duo support Microsoft Your Telephone?
Yep.
Surface Duo tin can connect wirelessly to any Windows x PC for phone calls, messages, notifications, and streaming of apps similar Samsung phones and "Link to Windows."
Source: Microsoft
Does Surface Duo support Android Car?
Yes.
Similar all modern Android phones, Surface Duo supports Android Auto so long equally the connecting car supports the feature. Users can plugin and/or use Bluetooth to pair Surface Duo to the car for phone calls, maps, music, etc.
Which Surface Pen works with Surface Duo?
Surface Duo supports all in market place generations of Surface Slim Pen, Surface Pen and Surface Hub two Pen.
Simultaneous Pen and bear upon are supported
The pen is not included with purchase.
Does Surface Pen Slim attach magnetically to Surface Duo?
No.
While earlier prototypes did have a fashion to allow the Surface Slim Pen adhere magnetically to the exterior of Surface Duo, the production model does not have whatever such method, according to Microsoft.
There are magnets in Surface Duo to turn the device on when opened, and Surface Pen can, clumsily, stick to these magnets. Withal, information technology is not past design nor intended for that purpose.
How many cameras does Surface Duo have?
There is just one camera above the right display. It's 11MP with an ƒ/2.0 aperture and a 1.0um sensor.
Its autofocus system uses the well-received and standard Stage Detection Autofocus (PDAF) tech, which is useful in brighter environments simply is non as adept as Laser Auto Focus for low-light situations.
The camera can be used for conference calls (Skype, Microsoft Teams, Google Duo, etc.), or users can flip the brandish around and use it has a regular camera. Since ane photographic camera is being used for selfies and regular photos. Microsoft is including some artificial intelligence (AI) to assist with scene detection and optimization.
Which Microsoft apps are included with Surface Duo?
The post-obit apps from Microsoft are preinstalled with Surface Duo:
- Microsoft Office: Discussion, Excel, PowerPoint, Part Lens, PDF reader, and More
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Teams
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Microsoft Edge
- Microsoft OneNote
- Microsoft To Do
- Microsoft News
- Microsoft Authenticator
- Microsoft Bing Search
- Intune Visitor Portal
- Microsoft Solitaire Drove
- Surface Audio
- Microsoft SwiftKey
Which Google apps are preinstalled on Surface Duo?
To comply with Google'due south policies, Microsoft has preloaded the post-obit Google apps on Surface Duo:
- Google Search
- Google Assistant
- Google Calendar
- Google Drive
- Google Duo
- Google Photos
- Google Play Movies & TV
- Google Play Store
- Google Maps
- Chrome
- Gmail
- YouTube
- YouTube Music
- Contacts
- Messages
- Phone
- Files
- Clock
- Calculator
- Sound recorder
What Android launcher does Surface Duo use?
The Surface Duo ships with a version of Microsoft Launcher optimized for dual screens.
Customers should exist able to switch to any other Android launcher freely, nonetheless, they likely will not be as optimized for dual screens as Microsoft Launcher.
What unique features can Surface Duo do?
Microsoft and Google accept optimized surface Duo and the Android Os for dual screens. The result is the following unique functions to Surface Duo:
- Dual screen windowing
- Adaptive modes
- App Groups
- Microsoft 365 Feed
- Dynamic dock
- Universal Search
- Adaptive Photographic camera
- Microsoft SwiftKey Adaptive Keyboard
- Your Phone Companion - Link to Windows
Do all Android apps work with Surface Duo?
Aye.
Any app on Android and the Google Play store will merely piece of work on Surface Duo. Opening links in ane app volition open up the app on the other display, so long as there is zip already nowadays.
There is no app incompatibility, and there are no limitations on what can exist installed to Surface Duo.
Developers optionally can optimize apps for Surface Duo to have advantage of the dual-screen functionality by utilizing the official Microsoft Surface Duo SDK. Examples of optimized apps (so far) include Spotify, Amazon Kindle, and Mylio (photo editor).
Is Amazon Kindle optimized for Surface Duo?
Yes.
Amazon has an updated version of its Kindle app for Android, whereby the app can "span" to both brandish and function only like a volume. Each screen will feature a folio, and users can merely swipe to plow the page.
Because Surface Duo has dual four:iii displays and tin can pivot just like a volume, the reading feel on Surface Duo should exist uncommonly good.
What colors does Surface Duo come in?
Only one color so far: glacier (white). Earlier prototypes reveal that Microsoft was considering all-black/graphite as a color besides, just that version is not shipping right now.
Source: Microsoft
Does Surface Duo support NFC and contactless payments?
No.
Surface Duo does not have NFC. Therefore it lacks the ability for contactless payments. Microsoft has commented about the lack of NFC on Surface Duo:
"Surface Duo does non currently offering NFC. The role of any first-generation blueprint is to focus on fundamental scenarios that solve customer challenges. Surface Duo is purpose-built for mobile productivity and giving people new ways to consummate complex tasks while away from their calculator. With this core priority complete, we will listen to client feedback and apply that lens to future iterations of the product."
Can y'all use a smartwatch for tap-to-pay/NFC?
Yes.
Surface Duo, like other Android phones, supports third-party smartwatches similar Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2, Milky way Lookout three, various Fitbits like Versa 2/Charge 4, or annihilation with Android Wear due east.g., Fossil 5.
When paired up with Surface Duo, these devices can be used to track wellness, steps, receive and respond to notifications, and use diverse tap-to-pay services similar Samsung Pay, Google Wallet, and Fitbit Pay.
Can Surface Duo charge wirelessly via Qi?
No.
Surface Duo does not have Qi wireless charging. Information technology does back up xviii-watt Fast Charging through its Type-C three.one port with included charger.
Does Surface Duo have a 3.5mm headphone jack?
No.
Surface Duo handles sound through the USB Type-C 3.ane port on the bottom (wired) or via Bluetooth 5.0 headphones like Surface Headphones, Surface Earbuds, or any other Bluetooth headset.
Is there expandable storage on Surface Duo or microSD card?
No.
There is no microSD carte du jour slot or expandable storage on Surface Duo.
Does Surface Duo support Continuum or docking?
No.
Although Surface Duo's Type-C three.1 port supports video out, this does not hateful it has a "docking style" or support for Microsoft Continuum. In other words, plugging into an external display will not give you something like to Samsung DeX.
Is there water resistance or an IP rating?
No.
Surface Duo does not have any IP rating for drops or water resistance, including the rain.
Where is your review of Surface Duo?
Our review of Surface Duo was posted on September tenth. You tin can find it here.
Preorder today
Microsoft Surface Duo
2 screens are ameliorate than 1
Microsoft delves into the hereafter of foldables with an ambitious dual-screen device, featuring two ultra-thin 5.six-inch AMOLED displays bound by a 360-degree hinge. This pocketable inking-enabled Android smartphone marks the latest in the Surface lineup, geared for mobile productivity.
Microsoft Surface Duo
Master
- Surface Duo review
- Best Surface Duo accessories 2022
- All-time Surface Duo cases 2022
- Best Surface Duo pens 2022
- Listing of Surface Duo specs
- Save up to $700 on Surface Duo
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more than.
Daniel Rubino
Daniel Rubino is the Executive Editor of Windows Cardinal. He has been covering Microsoft here since 2007 back when this site was chosen WMExperts (and later Windows Phone Central). His interests include Windows, Surface, laptops, and modern computing. Follow him on Twitter: @daniel_rubino.
Source: https://www.windowscentral.com/surface-duo-faq
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