Microsoft Unveils Surface Copilot+ PCs – Forbes

Microsoft Surface Copilot+ PCs promise AI-driven productivity and enhanced security for modern … [+] business.AI and cybersecurity are both reshaping the workplace, and Microsoft is driving both concepts forward with the introduction of its new Surface Copilot+ PCs for Business. These latest devices integrate AI-driven capabilities and advanced security features—including the Microsoft Pluton security processor—to offer a smarter, more resilient computing experience tailored for the modern enterprise.I attended a press briefing ahead of the announcement, where a Microsoft spokesperson declared, “Windows, combined with Microsoft 365 and Surface, provides a powerful platform for businesses to securely boost productivity, simplify workflows, and enhance collaboration by taking advantage of these innovations.”One of the most striking features of the Surface Copilot+ PCs is their integration of Neural Processing Units, which enable on-device AI capabilities that enhance productivity and efficiency. These enhancements streamline workflows, optimize performance, and allow businesses to leverage real-time insights without overloading traditional CPU and GPU resources.Microsoft designed these AI-powered PCs to seamlessly integrate with Windows 11’s Copilot AI assistant, making them ideal for professionals who rely on AI-powered tools for content creation, data analysis, and business operations. AI processing is handled locally on the device, ensuring faster performance, reduced latency, and improved energy efficiency—a critical advantage for hybrid and remote workforces.Additionally, Microsoft 365 Copilot is deeply embedded across applications, allowing for smarter, more intuitive experiences. AI assistance is integrated into various tasks across applications—features like ‘click to do’ provide quick AI actions based on the context of the screen, while AI writing tools such as ‘Summarize’ and ‘Explain’ are embedded directly into daily workflows.Security remains a top priority for businesses, and Microsoft is addressing modern cyber threats with the Microsoft Pluton security processor. According to Microsoft, Pluton is designed to combat firmware attacks, credential theft, and advanced cyber threats by integrating hardware-based security directly into the CPU, a significant improvement over traditional Trusted Platform Modules.A Microsoft spokesperson explained, “Pluton acts as a secure vault within the computer, ensuring that even if someone gains physical access to the device, they cannot easily steal critical data such as passwords, user identities, and encryption keys.”Microsoft Pluton: Built-In security for protecting business data and defending against modern … [+] threats.Microsoft is also continuously updating Pluton to ensure protection against emerging threats. The company announced that it will be introducing a Key Storage Provider for Copilot+ PCs powered by Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors and Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors, further strengthening cryptographic key management.Beyond Pluton, Windows 11 has been optimized for security, with new features such as Smart App Control, app control for business policies, extended Windows Hello authentication, and advanced phishing and ransomware protection.As businesses prepare for Windows 10’s end of support in October 2025, Microsoft is urging enterprises to upgrade, noting that Windows 11 significantly reduces firmware attacks and credential theft compared to its predecessor.For professionals who need constant connectivity, Microsoft is introducing 5G support in the Surface Laptop for Business. This long-awaited addition ensures that mobile workers, hybrid employees, and business travelers can remain connected in areas with limited Wi-Fi access.With 5G’s ultra-fast, low-latency connectivity, businesses can collaborate seamlessly, transfer large files effortlessly, and maintain secure remote access to corporate networks without relying on unsecured public Wi-Fi connections.It is good to have the option, I guess. But, I can’t see why anyone would want it. Pretty much everyone already has a 5G connection in the form of a smartphone, and it’s easy to just use the smartphone as a 5G hotspot when necessary, rather than paying additional money to have 5G connectivity built in to the laptop and extra money for a separate data plan.The new Surface Copilot+ PCs are powered by Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2). Microsoft claims this ensures top-tier performance across AI tasks, productivity applications, and multitasking scenarios. Combined with high-resolution touch displays, extended battery life, and premium build quality, these devices aim to redefine enterprise computing by merging power, intelligence, and security into one sleek package.The Surface Management Portal, integrated directly into Microsoft Intune, streamlines management of these devices. Security Copilot, Microsoft’s AI-powered security assistant, is being integrated into the portal, offering real-time security insights, compliance recommendations, and proactive threat management. According to a Microsoft spokesperson, “IT pros can quickly get the insights they need and take steps to ensure the security of their fleet.”The Surface Copilot+ PCs for Business represent a strategic response to the evolving needs of modern enterprises. With AI-driven optimizations, Pluton-enhanced security, and 5G-ready mobility, Microsoft is striving to position these devices as the ideal choice for businesses looking to stay ahead in a competitive, security-conscious digital landscape.Market demand is already aligning with this shift. Microsoft cited research from IDC, which found that 80% of businesses plan to refresh their PC portfolio by the end of 2025, and 70% of consumers will upgrade their PCs in the next two years. These figures emphasize the increasing need for secure, AI-enabled hardware that Windows 11-powered Surface devices provide.Microsoft’s latest announcement underscores a clear vision: AI and security must work in tandem to redefine business productivity.These AI-powered, security-enhanced devices could very well become the gold standard for enterprise computing in the AI era. As Microsoft continues to refine its hardware, software, and security innovations, the Surface Copilot+ PCs set the stage for a new generation of intelligent business devices.One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site’s Terms of Service.  We’ve summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:So, how can you be a power user?Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site’s Terms of Service.

Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/tonybradley/2025/02/02/microsoft-unveils-surface-copilot-pcs/