Microsoft Surface Laptop users will get software updates till 2027
Microsoft has announced a new effort to increase the longevity of its Surface laptops by offering six years’ worth of driver and firmware updates for devices released after January 1, 2021. This expansion of support was implemented in early October and covers a range of models, including the Surface Pro 8, Surface Laptop Studio, and Surface Go 3, all of which will receive their final patch on October 5, 2027.
Firmware updates are designed to improve device performance and introduce new features. The move to provide extended support aligns with the launch of the Surface Laptop Go 3, although the changes were not widely known until recently. Microsoft’s official support page lists all the models that will benefit from this extended support and includes the end of servicing date for each device.
While Microsoft is committed to providing driver and firmware updates for six years, there will be no changes to the operating system updates. Surface laptops will continue to receive Windows OS feature and security patches as per the company’s Lifecycle Policy. However, the Surface Duo 2 tablet will not receive these extended updates, with its last update still scheduled for October 21 of next year.
Not all Surface models released before January 1, 2021, will receive the full six years of support. Some models, like the Surface Laptop 3 released in October 2019, will have an end-of-service date set earlier, in this case, July 2024. Nevertheless, the expansion of support for select older models demonstrates Microsoft’s commitment to improving device longevity.
It’s worth noting that Microsoft’s decision to expand its patch rollout may have been influenced by Google, which recently announced longer software support for its Chromebooks. While Microsoft’s promise of six years of support falls short of Google’s 10-year pledge, it’s still encouraging to see tech companies extend the lifespan of their hardware.
