In its pursuit of innovation within the smartphone market, Microsoft had been exploring the dual-screen concept with its Surface Duo lineup. However, as the industry shifted towards more traditional foldable designs, the tech giant had reportedly pivoted its focus to developing a true foldable device, codenamed “Neon,” which would have been the successor to the Surface Duo series.
According to newly revealed information, the Surface Duo 3, or the Neon project, was set to feature a significant departure from the previous dual-screen approach. The device was envisioned to have an internal folding display, similar to the design of Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series or Google’s Pixel Fold, as well as an external cover display.
The patents showcased by Patently Apple provide a glimpse into the design Microsoft had in mind for this foldable smartphone. One of the key features was the inclusion of a power button that would have partially opened the device, eliminating the need to pry the two halves apart manually. This innovative approach would have enhanced the user experience and made the device more accessible.
Additionally, Microsoft was exploring the integration of magnetic accessories that could attach to the back of the device. One such accessory mentioned in the patents was a kickstand, which would have provided a convenient way to prop up the device for hands-free use.
The improved camera setup, with a triple-lens array positioned on the back of the device, also suggests that Microsoft was aiming to address one of the key shortcomings of the previous Surface Duo models, which had been criticized for their subpar camera performance.
However, the fate of this foldable project, codenamed Neon, remains uncertain. Reports indicate that Microsoft has since abandoned its plans for a Surface Duo 3 and has shifted its focus away from the smartphone market altogether. The company’s decision to end software support for the existing Surface Duo devices further reinforces the notion that the foldable vision may never come to fruition.
While the details revealed about the Surface Duo 3, or Neon, showcase Microsoft’s innovative approach to foldable smartphones, the tech giant’s apparent retreat from the smartphone arena leaves many questions unanswered. The industry continues to evolve rapidly, and it remains to be seen whether Microsoft will revisit its foldable ambitions in the future or if the Neon project will forever remain an unrealized vision.
