Original Microsoft Surface Duo is finally getting its Android 11 [Update]

Update 5PM ET 2/one/2022: The AT&T version of Surface Duo is now getting Android 11 besides.

Despite promises of regular updates, the original Surface Duo hasn't seen much in the way of substantial fixes or improvements. The last update to even reference stability was back in June, equally since then, the company has only pushed out monthly security patches.

But now, afterwards a very long wait, Android 11 is hither for Surface Duo. Android eleven was actually released dorsum in September, which doesn't audio too bad, except that it was September 2020. Android is now up to version 12, which various OEMs are slowly pushing to devices.

The update brings Surface Duo more on par, software-wise, with Surface Duo 2, which launched with Android 11.

The Android xi update brings diverse UI changes, like a wider notification shade, updated Launcher widgets, new volume and brightness controls, improved app folers, and a refreshed Settings layout. The update likewise adds new features like automobile app-spanning for user-selected apps, a new Photos app (based on OneDrive), and more than support for a Surface Pen, which can at present be used in Outlook or to markup photos.

Users can also now launch OneNote using the Surface Pen's peak push button, just similar Surface Duo 2 after its recent December update.

Additionally, other stability, gestures, and touch on improvements come with a new OS and firmware for the Surface Duo, which hopefully improves the overall performance and user experience.

Here's the official changelog from Microsoft:

Upgrades the Android operating organization to Android xi.
Addresses scenarios outlined in the Android Security Bulletin—January 2022.
Enabled launching of OneNote when clicking the meridian button on Surface Slim Pen 2. It requires Surface Slim Pen 2 to be paired with Surface Duo.
Enabled in Surface Duo features, in Settings, to choose preference for answering phone calls when folded.
Enabled in Surface Duo features, in Settings, to choose specific apps to automatically span across both screens when you open them.
Optimized Quick Settings and notification width for portrait and landscape orientations.
Adjust media volume directly from Quick Settings in whatsoever device mode.
Employ thumb mode in Microsoft SwiftKey at present with all device modes and application states.
Updated app drawer and binder design with improved drag-and-drop back up.
Refreshed Microsoft feed blueprint with updated cards and new Microsoft Showtime widgets for News and Weather.
Photos past OneDrive: New dual-screen enhanced feel for viewing and editing photos in the OneDrive app.
Xbox Game Pass: Discovery and play games from the deject with an on-screen controller. Some devices, accessories, and software sold separately. Additional fees and/or subscriptions required for some apps and features.
Send feedback to Microsoft past opening Settings, then tap Near, so tap Requite feedback to Microsoft.

To grab the update yourself, use these steps:

Connect to a Wi-Fi network.
Select Settings on your Surface Duo's home screen.
Select System.
Select System Update.
Select Check for update.
Select Restart at present.

The update is rolling out at present for unlocked models of the Surface Duo. ~~The update for the AT&T handset usually arrives a couple of weeks later.~~ As of 5PM ET on February ane, 2022, the AT&T variant is also now getting Android 11.

Of form, while Android 11 is a welcomed upgrade for those who took financial risks to buy Surface Duo, all eyes are now on Android 12L, which is better optimized for the Duo's dual-screen experience. While that OS brings improved features like a dual-screen notification shade, its real value is in the official APIs for app developers to target foldables like Surface Duo 1 and Surface Duo 2.

Sources familiar with Microsoft's plans note that the company is tinkering with internal beta builds of Android 12L, but in that location is no official release target notwithstanding prepare. It'south also not clear if that version will come to Surface Duo ane, although Microsoft promised 3 years of OS updates for both Surface Duos.

Android 12L is non expected to launch publicly until sometime in the first half of 2022.

An internet connection will soon be required when setting up Windows 11 Pro

UH OH

An cyberspace connection will soon be required when setting up Windows xi Pro

Microsoft has appear that later this year, users will be required to connect to the internet and sign-in with a Microsoft Account during the out of box setup feel on Windows 11 Pro. Microsoft has already been enforcing this requirement on Windows eleven Dwelling house since launch last October, and Windows 11 Pro is now expected to follow adjust soon.

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