Three years to the day since its inaugural release, Microsoft has concluded the official software support for its first-generation Surface Duo. Launching initially with the Android 10 operating system, the device has navigated through a lifecycle that fell somewhat short of the support span that consumers may have hoped for. The original Surface Duo ends with Android 12L as its last official update.
From the outset, Microsoft had outlined a three-year update plan for the Surface Duo. True to their word, the company has adhered to this timeline, ceasing to roll out new OS updates or security patches as of September 10th 2023. While this means the device misses out on a third major OS update, typically seen in the industry, users can find solace in the fact that their devices will still function, albeit with heightened caution advised due to the lack of forthcoming security patches.
Surface Duo users need not fret too much, as the app ecosystem will continue to offer updates, allowing for the usual functioning of the device for the time being. Despite this, the cessation of security updates does prompt a call for increased vigilance in the evolving cyber landscape. Nonetheless, as further Android releases become available, apps will inevitably drop support for older versions and therefore, over time, apps may cease to be available on the original Surface Duo, particularly sensitive apps such as finance/banking apps.
The official support page for the Surface Duo lifecycle, captured by Windows Central, serves as a testament to the journey that the device has been on since its inception. Moreover, Microsoft hasn’t been channeling efforts towards new features or bug fixes for the Surface Duo for several months now. As we reported on last month, there’s a distinct lack of clarity over Microsoft’s plans for its Surface Duo lineup, especially following reports that people previously involved in the product have been reassigned to other teams.
What are your thoughts on Microsoft’s Surface Duo support lifecycle? Where do you see the lineup heading? Share your thoughts in the comments below.