Microsoft will take to the stage in the Big Apple on Wednesday, October 6, where it’s expected to discuss the future of its Surface hardware.
It’s anticipated the Redmond-based company will announce souped-up versions of the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro. Plus, it has been tipped Microsoft could finally lift the lid on its long-rumoured dual-screen Surface computer.
Fans might also be treated to an updated Surface Go and potentially a number of other surprises, like an upgraded version of the Surface Headphones that debuted at Microsoft’s October hardware event last year.
Finally, it’s also expected the firm will discuss its new version of Windows 10, codenamed 19H2, during its New York showcase. Fans holding out hope that 19H2 will substantially overhaul the desktop and mobile operating system may be disappointed with Microsoft already confirming it will be an iterative improvement – albeit one with some performance boosts that should also improve battery life on your laptop and tablet.
Back in July, the American tech giant declared its forthcoming version of Windows 10 would “include a scoped set of features for select performance improvements, enterprise features, and quality enhancements”.
Moreover, Microsoft has also released a number of preview builds of 19H2 to members of its Insider programme that have showcased its forthcoming features.
One of the most notable upgrades delivered by 19H2 are for Windows Shell, the graphical interface that makes Windows 10 distinct.
Users are now able to take advantage of a number of new and nifty features such as the ability to add an event to a Calendar using its fly-out menu rather than being forced to open its dedicated app.
Additionally, File Explorer comes with a revamped interface that allows users to browse over local and cloud files in a single place. Users are also treated to a number of new notification management options, too.
Most importantly, Microsoft’s newest version of Windows 10 should also improve battery life and power efficiency for some older PCs.
19H2 allows users to access third-party virtual assistants, such as Amazon’s Alexa, from a computer’s lock screen. This functionality was previously limited to just Microsoft’s Cortana.
Finally, the newest version of Windows 10 should also exterminate a variety of bugs that have nestled themselves in the current May 2019 Update.
As you can see from the details listed above, 19H2 is iterative to say the least. It seems as though Microsoft is planning more substantial changes for the first Windows 10 upgrade to debut in 2020, codenamed 20H1.
It has already been rumoured 20H1 could introduce smooth corners to Windows 10’s aesthetic, push passwordless unlocking and allow users to name different virtual desktops.
You can find an outline of the best features coming to Microsoft’s 20H1 update here.