Microsoft recently unveiled the new Surface Laptop 5G model and announced it will begin shipping devices to customers on August 26. The base model starts at $1,799.99 and features Intel's Core Ultra Series 2 processor with integrated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for seamless utilization of Microsoft's Copilot Plus AI capabilities.
This 5G-enabled laptop is specifically targeted at enterprise users, exclusively available through Microsoft's commercial store and business partner channels rather than consumer retailers like Amazon or Best Buy. Alongside this launch, Microsoft is also making its 13-inch Surface Laptop and 12-inch Surface Pro models available to business clients effective today.
The 5G connectivity provides continuous high-speed cellular access, eliminating dependency on potentially unstable or insecure public Wi-Fi networks. This enables secure real-time access to cloud applications, corporate networks and critical data from virtually any location, significantly enhancing productivity for professionals such as field engineers, consultants and sales managers. The onboard AI processing capabilities accelerate task execution while reducing cloud dependency, offering benefits for data privacy and latency-sensitive operations. Users can now locally summarize large documents, analyze spreadsheet data or generate presentation drafts directly on the device.
"We're excited to expand our Surface Copilot+ PC portfolio to serve business customers. The Surface Laptop 5G with 13.8-inch display powered by Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) processors will start shipping on August 26, while the new 13-inch Surface Laptop and 12-inch Surface Pro are available today. AI is a competitive advantage for every organization - but only when accessible when needed. Surface Laptop 5G delivers this advantage through its NPU providing over 40 TOPS per second, enabling fast on-device intelligence that makes workflows more intuitive and efficient. Whether focusing during meetings, quickly finding and processing information, or reducing routine tasks, AI accelerates what matters most. With integrated 5G modems, users maintain constant connections to Microsoft 365 Copilot and other cloud tools for deeper insights and real-time collaboration," stated Microsoft in its official blog.
Visually similar to the existing 13.8-inch Surface Laptop 7 model, the 5G variant features internal redesigns to accommodate the 5G modem and support both physical nano SIM cards via side slots and eSIM technology. Microsoft conducted extensive 5G hardware testing with over 100 mobile carriers across more than 50 countries. This 5G integration maintains constant connectivity even when mobile, and can also function as a 5G hotspot sharing cellular internet via Wi-Fi.
The base configuration includes an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor, 16GB RAM and 256GB SSD storage. Top-tier models offer Intel Core Ultra 7 processors with 32GB RAM and 1TB storage at $2,699. All models will ship in Platinum Silver finish with some featuring dual-tone designs combining black keyboard panels and silver chassis edges.
Microsoft emphasized the 5G implementation goes beyond simple modem integration, developing a dedicated antenna system. "The core of Surface Laptop 5G is a dynamic antenna system that continuously adapts to its environment," explained Nancie Gaskill, Surface General Manager. The six-antenna system automatically adjusts configurations based on how the laptop is held or used to optimize signal strength.
Developing materials that could transmit radio signals without compromising performance while maintaining durability, tactile quality and lightweight characteristics was critical. "We created a custom multi-layer laminate material that meets all these requirements, delivering reliable 5G performance without impacting portability or design," confirmed Gaskill. The antennas are positioned higher in the device frame than typical 5G laptops to minimize interference and ensure more stable, consistent connectivity.
