Will the Surface Duo’s Stunning Design Be What Holds It Back?
Past Surface launches give us insight into where the Duo can go from here
Microsoft’s first smartphone in years comes with a plethora of surprising facts. First, it runs Android, making it the very first Microsoft hardware device not running a Microsoft operating system. Second, it’s a dual-screen device at a time when most manufacturers are trying to innovate with folding screens. Third, it comes with notable omissions such as lacking NFC, wireless charging and a multi-camera setup. Lastly, it does all this for the price of $1,400. That’s a decidedly flagship price for a phone missing some crucial flagship specifications.
Of course, the Duo is also no ordinary phone. Early reviews of the Surface Duo’s unique dual-screen hardware have been incredibly positive, with many reviewers noting its impressively thin design and smooth 360-degree hinge. However, reviewers have been instructed not to review the device turned on just yet. That’s understandable considering the Duo’s numerous limitations will become clear once it’s actually being used as a phone.
Will Microsoft be able to continue evolving this form factor with better components like a better camera and bigger battery without making it significantly thicker? If you take the position that…
