Source: Daniel Bader / Android Central
What you need to know
- The Microsoft Surface Duo is tipped to receive Android 11 this summer.
- Microsoft has committed to monthly updates to the Surface Duo, although has already experienced some gaps.
- The Surface Duo has dropped its price in the U.S. to just $999 and is expected to expand to more markets this month.
The Microsoft Surface Duo is no doubt one of the more interesting smartphones to come out of 2020, with its slim design and dual-screen approach to a fairly lightweight version of Android. Yet despite all it had going for it, the software experience hasn't been perfect, and Microsoft committed to monthly updates to improve the security and experience of the device. Despite some hiccups, the company has largely stuck to its promise, but the real question is around Android 11 and when Microsoft was planning to make the update available.
Dr. Windows has stated (via Windows Central) that the Surface Duo is expected to receive Android 11 this summer, based on an internal briefing with the Surface Duo team. He also mentioned that both Google and Microsoft are working closely together to improve Android's support for dual-screen devices.
Surface Duo owners may be disappointed have to wait so long for Android 11 on this $1000 smartphone, given Microsoft's supposedly close relationship with Google, but keep in mind that the device is powered by a two-year-old chipset that the company likely has to optimize, in addition to the dual-screen experience. It seems that the work Google and Microsoft are doing to improve dual-screen support in Android is requiring additional development time, but could eventually benefit other OEMs down the road.
Still, the prospect of getting Android 11 on the Surface Duo is exciting in that it should come with enhanced support for dual-screen devices and could help improve the software experience. It can also give new Surface Duo owners something to look forward to when the device expands to international markets this month, as Microsoft still seems quite committed to further developing the experience. And for those of you interested in purchasing the device, be sure to protect your investment with one of the best Microsoft Surface Duo cases.
Given the lack of a definitive date, the Android 11 could arrive sometime between June and September, although Microsoft could still announce update details at a later date.
Have you listened to this week's Android Central Podcast?
Every week, the Android Central Podcast brings you the latest tech news, analysis and hot takes, with familiar co-hosts and special guests.
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.
The $169 Sonos Roam portable speaker just leaked and UE should be worried
Sonos is expected to announce its first truly portable Bluetooth speaker in less than a week, but official images and info have just been leaked days before the launch.
Review: Xplora X5 Play is a kids smartwatch with a lot of potential
Kids smartwatches are moving from only being a toy, to being full-fledged communication and safety devices. In that spirit, the Xplora X5 Play offers excellent, matured hardware with some fun ways to encourage children to be active. But does it all work in a cohesive package?
Top 5 things I want to see from the cheaper OnePlus 9R
I don't know about you, but I've been eagerly anticipating the launch of the OnePlus 9 series for months. I'm specifically excited about what the lower-cost, value flagship OnePlus 9R might look like. Here's a short wishlist of features that I hope it has.
Boost your Oculus Quest 2 library with these sideloaded games and demos
Oculus Store quality requirements are strict, but Oculus's new App Lab program lets indie developers officially publish more unpolished titles that are a ton of fun. Then, there are unofficial SideQuest games, betas, mods, and demos that can be sideloaded onto your Quest 2, many of which are free. Here are the best sideloaded games to add to your Oculus Quest or Quest 2 library.