What do you want to know
- Microsoft has started rolling out Android 12L to the Surface Duo and Surface Duo 2.
- The update brings Microsoft Fluent Design language with an updated UI, new animations, and new features.
- The update comes in at 3.2GB for the Duo 2 and 2.6GB for the first-gen Duo.
Microsoft’s Surface Duo devices are finally getting the big Android 12L update, and with it they’re getting a taste of Windows 11 as Microsoft injects some of its Fluent design language into the software.
Spotted by our friends at Windows Central, updates to Surface Duo and Surface Duo 2 are now on the way.
The most notable change is the updated user interface, which takes after Windows 11. For example, the updated Quick Settings panel looks the same on Windows, with blurring effects. The Settings app also has new icons taken from Windows 11, and other small additions are sprinkled throughout, giving Android devices more of a Microsoft identity.
“The new UI updates we’re sharing today focus on building stronger connections between Windows and Duo, promoting familiarity using visuals and consistency,” the senior director said. of Microsoft product management Kimmo Lehtosalo in a blog post detailing the update. “We’ve maximized the potential for customization within Android to deliver this more aligned experience without sacrificing performance.”
There are also new animations when closing apps from the home screen. Zac Bowden also highlights the updated haptics when performing certain tasks.
A notable new feature is the Surface Pen menu that users can customize. Click on the top of Surface Slim Pen 2 to bring up a pop-up menu at the bottom of the screen, giving you quick access to any apps you’ve defined. The menu also lets you view the pen’s battery status and check for updates.
Of course, Android 12 features are also present. This includes new wallpapers that can change the system UI accent colors. You can use the pre-determined colors or select your own in the settings, like most Android phones running Android 12.
There are also Android 12 privacy indicators, which will let you know if any devices on the device are in use, such as the camera or microphone. The update notably omits the Android 12L taskbar that we’ve seen on other devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 4.
The original Surface Duo received Android 11 in January, making it the device’s second major update this year.
The Surface Duo 2 is the ultimate multitasker, thanks to its dual-screen design and Windows-inspired Android user interface. It has a sleek, slender design and integrates Microsoft services seamlessly to help you stay productive.