Microsoft secretly introduces a new configuration for its latest Surface Pro that comes with an Intel Core i5 chipset, 128 GB SSD, and 8GB RAM.
Replacing Older SKUs
Based on the online store listing, it appears that the new configuration replaces the former entry-level Intel Core i5, 128 GB SSD, and 4GB RAM option, which is now being sold for $799. Yet, eagle-eyed shoppers confirmed that it is currently tagged as out of stock, which is understandable given the substantial discount.
Consumers should take note that the processors listed for the available configurations are still the seventh-generation variants. Currently, there is no word that the Redmond-based firm will refresh its hardware anytime soon with the latest eighth-generation chipsets.
Versatile Connectivity
A few months ago, a special configuration of the New Surface Pro that came with a built-in LTE antenna was offered to business customers only. Now, regular consumers can grab the 2-in-1 with the added connectivity option for $1,449, which is the Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM option. The storage capacity is listed at 256 GB.
Meanwhile, the similar configuration sans the built-in LTE component is sold for $1,299. The company opted to call the latest model the New Surface Pro instead of the Surface Pro 5. This might be an attempt to establish a fresh approach since the previous model, the Surface Pro 4 was plagued with a hardware issue that affected its display, which was eventually called "Flickergate" by frustrated owners.
Improvements From Its Predecessor
It looks like Microsoft finally addressed the problem that affected a large portion of consumers who purchased the Surface Pro 4. The issue was far from isolated to a few units as unhappy buyers posted their complaints online. The problem seems to crop up exactly when the device is close to or surpasses its covered warranty period. Even units who were replaced continued to encounter the same issue.
Luckily, the New Surface Pro does not appear to have the same issues as the older model. To compare, the 2017 model is reportedly 2.5 times faster than the Surface Pro 3 with its seventh-generation processor. Battery life also sees a big improvement over the outgoing model by up to fifty percent.
Furthermore, the signature hinge of the surface lineup was redesigned to support the new studio mode with its next-generation hinge upgrade. This means users can position the device to lie close to flat on a table to make drawing or writing easier.
