Microsoft and Nvidia have jointly released the Surface Laptop Ultra, powered by the new RTX Spark system-on-a-chip, alongside updates to Windows 11 designed to enhance AI capabilities. The launch, unveiled at an event in San Francisco by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, aims to “reinvent the personal computer,” according to Huang. Pre-orders for the Surface Laptop Ultra and Surface RTX Spark Dev Box began today, with shipping scheduled for October 16, alongside similar devices from Asus, Dell, Lenovo, HP, and MSI. The Surface Laptop Ultra will start at $2,599, while the Dev Box begins at $5,999.
The RTX Spark chip is intended to accelerate AI workloads, with Microsoft promising performance up to 2.1 times faster for initial token generation, 4.3 times faster image generation, and 6.2 times faster video generation compared to the M5 Pro in a MacBook Pro. Demonstrations showcased the chip’s ability to handle demanding tasks in Blender, Photoshop, ComfyUI, and Unreal Engine. Windows 11 updates include new quick actions in the Search menu and integration of Copilot, triggered by natural language requests. Microsoft also highlighted compatibility with local AI models from vendors like Hermes, OpenClaw, and Perplexity, with Meta’s Muse also slated for Windows. The company emphasized Windows 11 as a secure platform for AI agents, focusing on containment features.
During the event, Pavan Davuluri, head of Windows and Devices, demonstrated the Surface Laptop Ultra running Github Copilot and Gears of War: E-Day at 60 frames per second. Microsoft states that “hundreds” of AAA and indie games will be available day one, with Call of Duty expected to be compatible in 2027. The 4.5-pound laptop features a bright HDR display and a magnetic USB-C charger. Microsoft also announced DGX Spark and Station for Windows, described as a “supercomputer” for desktop use. The company is positioning these advancements within its Agent 365, Microsoft IQ, and Copilot ecosystems.
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