Two Days Ahead Of Launch, Leaked Microsoft Surface 8 Pro Sticks

Surface devices will support 120Hz and Thunderbolt displays (photo: Surface 7 Pro Illustration Microsoft Doc)

JAKARTA - Earlier this week it was reported that Microsoft would launch its newest tablet Surface 8 Pro as the successor to the Surface 7 Pro. This tablet will have a number of improvements to the screen.

Some details about the claimed Surface Pro 8 have leaked from Twitter user @Shadow_Leak. The account posted a look at the Surface Pro 8 that appeared on the retail site along with specs and pictures of the device.

According to the listing quoted from Engadget, Monday, September 20, the Surface Pro 8 will pack an 11th generation Intel processor and run Windows 11, a 13-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Thunderbolt support, and a replaceable SSD.

This is the first time a Surface device will support a 120Hz display and Thunderbolt, which opens up new avenues for playing games via an external GPU, as many users have come to expect such capabilities. Meanwhile, the bezels appear to be thinner this time around.

The 13-inch screen is also bigger than the 12.3-inch screen on the Surface Pro 7 and Surface Pro 7+. The latter is exclusive to businesses. A removable SSD isn't a new feature like the one on the Surface Pro 7+ either, but it's likely to be welcome.

However, if the leaks are accurate, the Surface Pro 8 might be the star attraction. The Pro model has been one of Microsoft's most durable Surface devices, but it's also one of the most conservative with relatively few changes.

Given that Microsoft will hold an event on September 22, the company will also introduce a new line of products. In addition to the Surface Pro 8, reports say there will be the next-generation Surface Go 3, Surface Book 4, and Surface Pro X.

Not only that, the official launch of Windows 11 will also take place on October 5, 2021. This new operating system will be available as a free upgrade for PCs with Windows 10 but already eligible, or on new devices pre-loaded with Windows 11.