It has been a year since Microsoft launched the Surface Book 3 and some people are waiting for an announcement on an upgrade model. However, we may not get a Surface Book 4 at all. Don’t worry, Microsoft is not ditching its laptop/2-in-1, bit will be called the Surface Pro.
This is based on a recent Microsoft patent that describes a screen that can swivel on its hinge. It uses a two-point hinge mechanism that provides stabilization.
Windows Central reports this patent is different to so many we see. Usually a patent is for a far away feature that many never even be developed. However, this latest patent seems to be for a device that is imminent.
In fact, the report points to a source who claims Microsoft is preparing a new laptop with a non-detachable display. This is where it might be confusing.
You are probably thinking if there is a new device with a non-detachable display, why would this be the Surface Book 4 or a new Pro device? After-all, Microsoft already has the Surface Laptop line, so why not the Surface Laptop 4?
And, why would Microsoft create a new product line called “Pro” when it already has the Surface Pro and two devices (the Book and Laptop) that are already similar? The answer is probably the company wouldn’t.
Upcoming Devices
Windows Central argues the rumored high specifications on the upcoming device suggest it is part of the more powerful Surface Book range. Another argument is the screen swiveling mechanics would allows a 2-in-1 experience without needing to move the screen.
There have already been reports the Surface Laptop 4 will launch this year. Will Microsoft include a moving display on that product line? It is unlikely, so the Surface Book 4 becomes the prime candidate for the new patent.
Personally, I would prefer a detachable display to remain the calling card of the Surface Book. Having a separate tablet-like component beats having a folding device with the keyboard in the way.
Tip of the day: If you have an HP, Dell, or Lenovo touchscreen PC, you’ll probably want to enable or disable it at various times. Unfortunately, however, many Windows 10 touch screen laptops don’t make this easy.
Thankfully, through some tweaks, you can turn off the touch screen no matter your device. In our tutorial, we show you how to disable a touchscreen on Windows 10. We’ll also show you to enable it if you wish, which may help if your HP laptop touch screen is not working, the touch screen is not working on your Lenovo laptop, or you’re having problems with any other brand.
Last Updated on February 14, 2022 8:22 pm CET by Luke Jones
