Microsoft says it will roll out the Android 11 Update for the 1st gen Surface Duo by the end of this year

Ashwin
Sep 24, 2021
Mobile Computing
|
4

Microsoft announced its new Surface Duo 2 a couple of days ago. But let's not forget the first gen foldable. It was launched in August 2020, and was priced starting at $1399 for the base variant with 128 GB of storage, while the 256 GB model was available for $1499.

Android 11 Update for Microsoft Surface Duo to release this year

That is a pretty expensive device, wouldn't you agree? When Microsoft unveiled the foldable, it promised that it would support the dual-screen device with 3 years of OS updates and security patches. It has been over a year after since the 1st-gen Surface Duo was released, and the premium foldable is still running on Android 10. You read that right. The device did get some security updates, but it wasn't updated to the latest and greatest that Android had to offer.

The lack of 5G, NFC, a small battery and the other technical flaws aside, the foldable was criticized for having rather buggy software which made it difficult to use. Microsoft tried to attract more buyers by slashing the price of the device by 50% a few months ago (still available at the official store), but it merely left the early adopters fuming.

Android 11 includes some useful features for foldable devices, including hinge angle detection and native dual-screen apps (full screen). So you can see why it's not just important to be on the latest version, but also because the Surface Duo has been missing out on useful functions.

Rumors suggested that the Android 11 Update for the Surface Duo would be rolled out in the Summer of 2021, but that came to no avail. And now, we finally have an official word regarding the situation. A Microsoft spokesperson has confirmed to The Verge that the Surface Duo will be updated to Android 11 before the end of this year. For context, it is worth mentioning that Android 12 is about to go official in the first week of October, while the Surface Duo will be getting an update for an already outdated operating system.

If you take a look at mid-range offerings from the likes of Samsung, Motorola, Nokia, Xiaomi/Redmi/Poco, you may notice that several phones that cost a third of the Surface Duo's price had been updated to Android 11, within a few months after Google announced the new version last year. If we are talking about expensive devices, Apple provides updates for its iPhones, iPads and Mac systems for 5-6 years. Granted that the number of Apple devices are fewer compared to the hundreds of models that cause the Android screen to be fragmented, timely updates are something that users like to see on any device. My Apple iPad 9th gen (2017) which shipped with iOS 10 received iOS 11, 12, 13, 14 and recently got the iPadOS 15 update. How is that for quality customer support?

Microsoft should have not only released Android 11 by now, but also should have been working on a preview version of Android 12 and ironing out the bugs in preparation for the stable release. But given the rather poor support that we have seen so far, should we dare to question when, or if at all Android 12 will be released for the device?

Are you a Surface Duo owner? How do you feel about this?

Summary
Android 11 Update for Surface Duo will arrive by the end of this year
Article Name
Android 11 Update for Surface Duo will arrive by the end of this year
Description
Microsoft says it will update the Surface Duo to Android 11 by the end of 2021.
Author
Publisher
Ghacks Technology News
Logo
Advertisement

Tutorials & Tips


Previous Post: «
Next Post: «

Comments

  1. Rush said on August 28, 2023 at 9:50 pm
    Reply

    If Nothing OS is nothing more that an overlay with Google still in the midst….then I ain’t interested.

    1. Seeprime said on September 12, 2023 at 4:12 pm
      Reply

      Another unrelated comment older than the article. Pathetic.

      1. Robenroute said on September 13, 2023 at 9:06 am
        Reply

        it is becoming mindbogglingly annoying indeed…

  2. ThisIsTheWayTheGhacksEnds said on September 13, 2023 at 9:09 am
    Reply

    Under: https://www.ghacks.net/2023/09/12/iphone-15-with-usb-c-port/

    Apple was forced to add USB-C to a phone and the maccultists start talking about “revolution” and “paradigm shift” (as if USB phones had never come out before). It’s so ridiculous it’s reminiscent of comedians doing the “stepped on a water hose” stunt – that was at least somehow funny a hundred years ago.
    Reading this on a site that used to be a technical resource is especially ridiculous.
    How pathetic

  3. Anonymous said on September 14, 2023 at 4:28 pm
    Reply

    “An iPhone 15 with a USB-C port will mean more than you think”

    That Apple can finally stop hindering progress if spanked hard enough ?

  4. Alex Hales said on September 21, 2023 at 12:51 am
    Reply

    I’m thrilled to see Instagram taking steps to enhance the user experience with features like Live Activities. This update is a game-changer, especially for those who frequently upload content on the platform.

    The ability to track upload progress in the background is a simple yet incredibly useful addition. It not only keeps users informed about the status of their uploads but also allows for a more seamless experience on the platform. No more constantly checking if your post has successfully uploaded or worrying about interrupted uploads due to a weak signal.

    As an active Instagram user, this feature is a relief. It showcases Instagram’s commitment to improving user satisfaction and addressing common pain points. It’s all about making the platform more user-friendly, and this feature certainly accomplishes that.

    I can’t wait to try out Live Activities and enjoy a stress-free posting experience. Kudos to Instagram for continually innovating and making our social media lives easier!

    Keep up the great work, Instagram, and thanks to ghacks for keeping us in the loop with the latest tech updates!

    I am additionally add one more think if you want to watch instagram stories anonymously to visit site storysnooper.com.

  5. Alex Hales said on September 25, 2023 at 6:02 pm
    Reply

    I found this post really insightful! It’s always intriguing to learn about the various ways we can navigate and understand social media platforms. The idea of checking someone’s Threads following list might seem like a niche topic, but in today’s digital age, it can be quite relevant.

    As someone who uses social media regularly, I appreciate the tips and guidance provided here. It’s not just about curiosity; it’s also about understanding our online connections better. This information can help us engage more effectively and stay updated with the content that interests us the most.

    The step-by-step instructions provided in the article are clear and easy to follow. It’s great that the author has taken the time to break down the process, making it accessible to both tech-savvy individuals and those who might not be as familiar with these platforms.

    I also appreciate the emphasis on privacy and ethics. It’s essential to remember that online interactions should always respect the boundaries and consent of others. The article’s focus on respecting others’ privacy is a reminder of the importance of responsible online behavior.

    Overall, this post is a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand more about the Threads following list on social media platforms. I’ll definitely be sharing this with my friends and followers who might find it useful. Keep up the great work, ghacks!

Leave a Reply

Check the box to consent to your data being stored in line with the guidelines set out in our privacy policy

We love comments and welcome thoughtful and civilized discussion. Rudeness and personal attacks will not be tolerated. Please stay on-topic.
Please note that your comment may not appear immediately after you post it.