no detachable screen for Microsoft’s new laptop?

August 12, 2021 Joe Kenehan

Almost a year after the arrival of the Surface Book 3, Microsoft would be about to unveil a new generation of its laptop. This one would be entitled to a new design, with a bad surprise.

According to a patent discovered by our colleagues at Windows Central, the new Surface Book 4 would not have a detachable screen, unlike the Surface Book 3 that we had been able to test. Indeed, as can be seen in the image below, the new model would have a new hinge similar to the HP Elite Folio and HP Specter Folio.

Indeed, rather than being able to detach the screen, the new design of the Surface Book 4 would tilt its 14-inch screen forward or backward, like a Surface Studio. In addition, it would be possible to put the screen flat above the keyboard to use the computer in tablet format.

To read also – Surface Laptop 4 test: an exceptional ultra-portable despite a few small flaws

Microsoft will review the design of its Surface Book 4

The fact that the screen is no longer detachable is not necessarily bad news for the future computer from Microsoft. Indeed, since the Surface Book 3 could be transformed into a tablet by removing the screen, all important components such as the battery or the processor had to be behind the screen.

From now on, Microsoft will again be able to place these components behind the keyboard, as is the case with a traditional computer. The Surface Book 4 could then enjoy better autonomy thanks to this space saving, but also better performance since the processor will be easier to cool. In addition, the screen should suddenly be lighter than the previous model, which will facilitate the use of the computer.

A more traditional design could also allow Microsoft to lower the entry price, which was set at 1,799 euros on the Surface Book 3. Unsurprisingly, Microsoft’s future computer is expected to be compatible with Windows 11, the new version of the American giant’s operating system. Microsoft always hosts an event in the fall, usually in October, and could therefore take this opportunity to announce the Surface Book 4.