Microsoft’s Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2 have both been in the market for a few weeks now and both devices have seen some Windows updates and firmware updates along the way. Microsoft is currently working on releasing an update to address an issue with unnecessary screen dimming, when engaging in high CPU-intensive activities like gaming.
The screen dimming issue with both Surface devices stems from playing games. For example, when playing a game for a little while, the Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2 will begin to get hot and the display will dim as a result of the heat.
“I have been using my Surface 2 for a week now and everything has been great except when I play Halo: Spartan Assault. The back gets pretty hot while playing (which I don’t mind) but then my Surface automatically dims the screen to the lowest level. I have to pause and wait for the Surface to cool down before playing again. This is unacceptable to me,” one Surface 2 owner stated on the official Microsoft support forums.
Some consumers reported having the same issue, while some believed they had a defective unit. A Microsoft spokesperson clarified that this screen dimming issue is the result of increased thermal temperature. Microsoft is working on a “tuning update” to remove this feature – which the company calls “unnecessary” as it should not apply in some scenarios.
“Surface devices may dim the screen as thermal temperatures rise from extended, high CPU intensive activities– like gaming. In some scenarios this does not appear necessary. Our top priority is for customers to have the best possible experience on their Surface device. We’re working on a tuning update that will remove this unnecessary dimming event. You can expect this update in an upcoming Windows Update package. In the meantime allow the Surface to cool down for a minute or so in order to return the screen to previous brightness levels,” Microsoft explained.
Expect to see this update in the near future as part of Patch Tuesday. Have you experienced this issue on your Surface 2 or Surface Pro 2?
