Microsoft Surface event: What's new

Microsoft held a special event ahead of Build 2024 and announced a new category of computers called Copilot Plus. These devices come with the Arm-based Snapdragon X Elite and Plus processors from Qualcomm and will later feature Intel and AMD chips. The chips have neural processing units (NPUs) designed to power new AI features in Windows 11. As a result, Microsoft says Copilot Plus PCs are 58 percent faster than the M3 MacBook Air. In addition to Microsoft's new Surface devices, Lenovo, Dell, Acer, Asus, and HP are launching Copilot Plus devices designed to support new AI features.

A new Recall feature is available within Copilot Plus PCs. The new tool runs locally on your device and logs your activity on your computer, allowing you to search for and retrieve the content you've interacted with.

Microsoft is bringing Copilot to more areas of Windows 11. The AI assistant will be able to provide suggestions within the Settings menu, edit files within File Explorer, or write responses to notifications you receive. Copilot is also getting OpenAI's new GPT-4o model, allowing the AI to answer questions based on what you see on your screen.

Microsoft's new Surface Pro features Snapdragon X Elite and Plus chips from Qualcomm. It's up to 90 percent faster than the previous Surface Pro, and it comes with the option for an OLED display panel for the first time. The 13-inch Surface Pro starts at $999.99 and is available in four colors. It's compatible with a new Surface Pro Flex Keyboard.

Microsoft also announced the new Surface Laptop, which similarly offers the AI-ready Snapdragon X Elite and Plus chips. The device features a refreshed design with thinner bezels and a haptic touchpad. Microsoft says the device is more than 80 percent faster than its previous generation and offers up to 22 hours of local video playback. The Surface Laptop 6 comes in 13.8- and 15-inch display options, starting at $999.99.

Microsoft is partnering with companies like Adobe to optimize their apps for Copilot Plus PCs. The native Arm64 versions of Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, Firefly, and Express will be available on Copilot Plus PCs today, while Illustrator and Premiere Pro will be available this summer. Copilot Plus PCs will also benefit from AI features within DaVinci Resolve, CapCut, Cephable, LiquidText, and Djay Pro.