A new report on Windows Latest via ITHome states that Microsoft is preparing the way for a new generation of Surface Duo. The company tried to gain a foothold in the “smartphone” market with a very intriguing device, the Surface Duo. Instead of a foldable, the device was a dual-screen product with a hinge separating the two screens that could also function as an individual. It’s not a foldable screen, as we can easily see the split between the two screens, but the device can almost function as a foldable one. The first Surface Duo was a controversial device, took months to reach the market, and was already obsolete compared to overall Android smartphones when it arrived. The company also introduced the Surface Duo 2 which corrects some of the mistakes of its predecessor. Apparently, Microsoft is preparing the terrain for the Surface Duo 3 with significant improvements in outlook.
Possible Surface Duo 3 Design
Apparently, Microsoft will stick with the “dual-screen phone” concept instead of entering the foldable segment. Surface Duo 3 will reportedly bring a more durable screen based on recently published patent details. A new patent filed by Microsoft has been dubbed a “foldable display device” and shows a “dual-screen” folding screen device using a single folding display. Microsoft currently calls it a “one-piece back,” which uses stretchable material in a clearly expandable area and sits near the hinge, meaning it’s used in a similar fashion to the Samsung Galaxy Fold.
The main advantage is that the new design does not take up much space within the body. Microsoft’s Surface Duo 3 may be thinner and lighter than a typical “dual-screen” device. There is a “back cover” design that is reportedly better than the Galaxy Fold and similar smartphones. It will be more durable and therefore less likely to break. According to the patent application, Microsoft talks about a folding screen that can be folded 360 degrees into the folding portion. It uses a back cover and a cover glass layer that covers the entire display. It adds a light-emitting layer between the back cover and the cover glass layer to ensure a natural feel.
Obviously, the product uses a folding screen glass. There is a back panel that comes with a “slot” of some sort. This allows you to bend while avoiding mechanical creases. Hence, the Surface Duo 3 can bring the same benefits as a foldable smartphone. However, it is probably more durable. For now, it is better to digest it with a pinch or two of salt. After all, there’s no indication that it will end up as a final product.
Let’s see if the next product reaches the overall consumer. So far, Surface Duo has been the target of enthusiasts who even managed to get it running Windows 11. Meanwhile, Microsoft is increasingly struggling to provide Android updates.