Remember the Surface Duo and Surface Duo 2? Microsoft’s unique and interesting smartphones that have sold in low numbers are mostly forgotten in the mobile community. Worse, Microsoft too hardly discusses the handsets, with no mention of a Surface Duo 3. However, at least the devices still receive updates, with both getting an August Android bump.
Still, Microsoft is not adding new features to either the Surface Duo or Surface Duo 2. Instead, the updates focus on improvements to the general user experience. Here is the change log for the Surface Duo and the changelog for the Surface Duo 2:
Surface Duo August 2022 Update
- Software version: 2022.519.29
- Addresses scenarios outlined in the Android Security Bulletin—August 2022.
- Improves device stability.
Surface Duo 2 August 2022 Update
- Software version: 2022.519.47 (51MB)
- Addresses scenarios outlined in the Android Security Bulletin—August 2022.
- Improves device stability.
- Improves video quality during video calls.
Surface Duo Future
There are rumors – as there always are – that Microsoft is working on the Surface Duo 3, with an announcement coming this fall. I am in the camp that the Duo concept is on its final lap. If any third generation is to arrive, Microsoft absolutely has to get it right this time.
Both the OG Duo and the Duo 2 are genuinely amazing pieces of hardware. Triumphs of design and functionality. As a software and user experience, they leave a lot to be desired. Consumers either don’t know about the Duo smartphones or see them as something not worth investing in.
Microsoft last week deepened its partnership with Samsung, putting Office on the latest Samsung for the Galaxy Z Fold 4. That puts pressure on the Duo and if there is to be the third generation, it feels increasingly like the last chance.
Tip of the day: For the most part, Windows apps are stable, but they can still be still thrown out of whack by updates or configuration issues. Many boot their PC to find their Microsoft Store isn’t working or their Windows apps aren’t opening. Luckily Windows 11 and Windows 10 have an automatic repair feature for apps that can resolve such issues.
