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Microsoft Surface Duo: How to pre-order and get the best deal
Microsoft is officially returning to smartphones, with the launch of Surface Duo. The company appeared to give up on phones after Windows Phone failed spectacularly, but it's giving them a go again and appears to be taking an innovative approach by not only releasing a dual-screen device but one that runs Android instead of a version of Windows 10.
Interested in buying Surface Duo? Here's everything you need to know.
Must read:
- Microsoft's Surface Duo may be Kin, the sequel
- Surface Duo isn't an iPhone or Galaxy Fold. That's the point CNET
- Surface Duo is not the foldable phone you're looking for TechRepublic
What is the Microsoft Surface Duo?
The Surface Duo debuted at an October 2019 event alongside the Windows 10X-powered Surface Neo. It features two screens connected by a 360-degree hinge and is designed to run a modified version of Android. It's therefore considered a dual-screen Android phone -- although Microsoft simply describes the device as the "newest member of the Surface family."
How much does Surface Duo cost?
The Surface Duo has a starting price of $1,399 for the 128GB model. The 256GB model is $1,499.
When will Surface Duo be available?
The Surface Duo launches in the US on Sept. 10, 2020. Pre-orders start Aug. 12, 2020.
It's unclear if it will receive a wider release.
How to pre-order Surface Duo
Surface Duo works on AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon networks (including subsidiary and international partner networks).
You can pre-order Surface Duo through the online Microsoft Store starting Aug. 12, 2020. You can use an existing SIM card and activate later, or you can order it with an AT&T SIM card.
Surface Duo comes to AT&T starting at 12am ET on Aug. 13, 2020. You can choose from 128GB or 256GB options for $1,399 and $1,499, respectively. Or, if you qualify, you can get Surface Duo on an installment plan through AT&T. These plans cost up to $47 (for 128GB model) and $50 (for 256GB model) per month over 30 months.
Are there any Surface Duo deals?
If you pre-order the Surface Duo from the Microsoft Store, you will see the option to save up to $50 on Microsoft 365, and you can save up to $33 on the Surface Slim Pen. If you choose to pre-order from AT&T instead, you can spread the cost of the phone over a monthly payment plan, which we provide details on above. These are the only "deals" we've found so far.