While many were hoping Microsoft might have gotten some help with its Surface Duo hardware thanks to a hint at the upcoming OS update during its annual Surface Event, the best people received was a brief first-look after the showcase ended. Microsoft invited several publications to its Redmond campus last week but didn''t make public what the purpose of the visit was, but many presumed it had to deal with hands-on time with its upcoming Surface devices prior to the event launch.
With the upcoming Android 12L update, some journalists have got some hands-on time with a device that wasn''t previously mentioned during the Surface 2022 keynote in the Surface Duo. Those who work at Windows Central are now able to show off a little of what Android 12L will look like on a Surface Duo 2 when it launches later this year as planned by Microsoft.
Microsoft is taking a significant step in a different visual direction from Google''s (close to stock) Pixel UI and Samsung''s OneUI by introducing more Windows elements. Based on Windows Central''s images, there will be more Fluent design inspirations that include translucency, Micha, gradients, rounded windows, color icons and theming capabilities.
Another subtle visual element from Windows 11 to the Surface Duo''s Android 12L update is the notification shade and settings panel, which will follow the design elements of the Quick Actions panel for the desktop.
When Android 12L hits Surface Duo, Microsoft''s Windows color theming architecture will match Google''s Material You theming platform.
At this point beyond ''later this year,'' Microsoft hasn''t agreed to a difficult date or even timeframe for the Surface Duo Android 12L update.
Another concern for original Surface Duo owners might be the cavalier nature in which Microsoft co-mingle both generations of devices under the larger Surface Duo nomenclature, despite note specifically delineating the 12L update between Duo and Duo 2.
There might be a future where Duo owners can purchase a version of Android 12 that does not include the additional features that the Duo 2 has already been described in Android 12L.
Microsoft is hoping that either Surface Duo devices will receive more information on the Android 12L update.