Surface Duo 2 Long-Term Review: Revisiting A Different Kind Of Foldable

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[INTO THE FOLD EPISODE 12 - SURFACE DUO 2 REVIEW RE-DO]
Just last week on this channel we were exploring what it means to blur the line between smartphone and computer … but I guess the reality is that I’ve been thinking about it since about 2007, when I realized during an otherwise uneventful walk around my college town that I could post a new LiveJournal entry (yep, I was one of those guys) right from my pocket instead of going home for my computer.
This week, instead of replacing a PC with a smartphone, we’re talking about bringing a PC feature to the smartphone: the idea of a second screen. The subject of today’s episode of Into The Fold is the Surface Duo 2 from Microsoft, and yes, you’ve seen it before on this channel - but it’s not the phone you remember.
[SUBSCRIBE TO MRMOBILE]
kzbin.info/door/SOp...
[ABOUT INTO THE FOLD EPISODE 12]
This is the twelfth in a series of episodes exploring the many facets of life on a folding screen. From the best foldable phones of 2021 to the bleeding-edge world of folding-screen laptops, Into The Fold is MrMobile’s showcase for the most exciting movement in mobile technology since 2007!
MrMobile does not accept compensation from the manufacturers of the products he reviews in exchange for producing content. No payment was provided and no manufacturer or carrier was afforded a preview, editorial input or copy approval rights concerning this review. The lone sponsor of this content is Surfshark.
[LINKS - WEB]
The oddity of Android 12L: Google’s prelude to tablets and foldables instead of its big moment [9to5Google]:
9to5google.com/2022/03/20/and...
Android 12L is coming to tables and foldables ‘later this year’ [Engadget]:
www.engadget.com/android-12-l...
Built for foldables, Android 12L is hitting Surface Duo ‘later this year,’ according to Google [Windows Central]:
www.windowscentral.com/androi...
Put both Duos through a lot of use today. Some thoughts [Reddit]:
/ put_both_both_duos_thr...
[MUSIC]
"Ran Ran" by Bellodrone [Soundstripe]:
app.soundstripe.com/songs/9073
“Sunset Dreamz” by Neon Beach [Soundstripe]:
app.soundstripe.com/songs/5058
“Ok Ok” by Neon Beach [Soundstripe]:
app.soundstripe.com/songs/11023
[CHAPTERS]
00:00 Pocket PC reborn
00:55 A different kind of foldable
04:28 “Surface Laptop Nano”
06:07 Shark bait
07:03 More screens, more problems
09:40 Bad camera blues
10:55 Can’t stay away
[SOCIALIZE]
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/ themrmobile
/ themrmobile
mrmobile.tech
[DISCLOSURES]
This post may contain affiliate links, which afford Future plc a commission should you make a purchase. This does not affect MrMobile’s editorial content. See Future's disclosure policy for more details: www.futureplc.com/terms-condi...
Additional information concerning MrMobile’s ethics policy can be found here: mrmobile.tech/ethics
#surfaceduo #surfaceduo2 #microsoft #dualscreen #foldable #intothefold #tabletphone #tech #mrmobile

[@TheMrMobile]

[CORRECTION] You can indeed resize SwiftKey to cover the entirety of the lower screen when using the device in mini-laptop mode. Thanks to Matthew Lemmers for the info! MrMobile regrets the error.

[@FJ-Victor]

I came in the comments to post this exact thing... :)

[@willyjum]

Correction 2 : you were attempting to climb stairs in fire watch, not a ladder.

[@yahavhazut]

I love how MrMobile uses third person pronoun

[@ConnorDunhamFilms]

Other than more stability on the software side, what do you hope to get from a potential Microsoft Surface Duo 3?

[@dinkarfowkar999]

Mistakes do happen :)

[@KEGosti]

Honestly, I love the form factor with 2 screens instead of a single foldable screen. A better software like a Pixel and the removal of the camera bump to allow it to fold completely flat will definitely put this in my radar.

[@salmiakki5638]

a better software like a pixel is such a pre 6/pro statement to make :P

[@mehshutup3041]

Best android software is actually the one ui right now.

[@avatarspirit57]

Best iteration in the market that actually works would be the dual screen feature among LG phones of the V50, Velvet, and V60.

[@spdewertton]

@@avatarspirit57 Yes I love the idea of a case working as a second screen. Rip LG.

[@TonyJenn]

Idk if I want pixel software right now...

[@technogi5222]

I picked one up last week after it dropped to $999, I love it so far. I have had zero bugs and the battery has been solid. The OS as of April 25th has been like butter. No issues!

[@sgnfo]

Hi, I consider to buy DUO 2, may I a question? Is it possible to accept a call with closed surface duo 2? and make a speech? or do I have to talk with the opened surface? How long it has endurance of the battery with normal use? Thanks Stepan

[@user-cl8yc8ht5x]

I just ordered one today for 300 at Walmart ))

[@bradenfitzpatrick8352]

I will always wish LG didn't die because the ability to slap on a second screen when you need it sounds so appealing. Maybe another company will pick up where they left off.

[@airslash98]

I'm watching this on my LG V60 Dual Screen! I will miss LG greatly once this phone dies

[@Mireaze]

Unfortunately the second screen case solution is the worst of both worlds. I rocked a v50 for a while, now on the fold 3 and the single large screen is far better. The duo seems like a good middle ground though

[@flamegent]

the lg v60 is my daily phone and I honestly am going to be so sad when I have to buy a new phone eventually because no has made a phone with as many features. such a great phone

[@startedtech]

The LG V60 unfortunately had a very serious design flaw which resulted in the phone's USB-C port (maybe the case connector too) completely failing. I've met two people that owned V60s with the screen case, both of them had to get the phone replaced and then had it start happening again. Should mention same thing for me. Taking it in and out of the case just put a lot of strain on the USB-c connector, and considering how bulky it was it was something you wanted to do often.

[@flamegent]

@@Mireaze I love my dual screen case. Certainly more than a fragile folding screen. Why do you think its bad? It seems like the best way to do it

[@jakesyoutubezone9808]

Duo 1 owner here and it has completely replaced my laptop for travel and cafe computing. I still carry a pixel as my pocket communicator/camera/wallet but man oh man, Microsoft is SO close to getting it right that I'm tempted to pick up the duo 2 once the software/price hit a mythical magic point in the next year.

[@NL0Gwenster]

I guess it ultimately depends on what you need to do with it. But for me i cannot see a Duo 2 replacing my go-to travel laptop for travel (i travel a lot within the EU for 2-3 days every other week) & cafe computing. Which is the surface go 2 (maxed out version) which fits in the smallest bag I have, a 5 liter peak design. With plenty of space to boot for my camera (X100V) and a 500ml water bottle, plus some other small daily accesories. The biggest thing what i do with mobile computing is typing. Lots of typing, and yes i do need 2 windows to cross reference information. But that's still do-able on a 10,5 inch screen with the scaling set to 125 or 100%. The keyboard with OS level keyboard shortcuts will make this much faster than me doing that on a Duo 1 or 2 even with a keyboard. I've tried using mobile keyboards before like the microsoft fold keyboard (nice design, wish they would iterate more on it to remove the gap) with mobile phones for typing but it's just too slow when going cross-apps continously.

[@Gilamath.]

did the software improvements for the Duo 2 also come to the original Duo? The idea of purchasing the original, which is being sold for about $200-300 used, has been bouncing around in my head for the past few months

[@PhilKnall]

@@Gilamath. this has been on my mind too. The chassis is so much more appealing I'm willing to sacrifice on some hardware points.

[@LeftBeef]

@@Gilamath. I have a 2nd hand Surface Duo 1 and it did significantly benefit from the fabled Android 10 update that finally hit. It's still not great, but it's a lot better

[@jakesyoutubezone9808]

@vTJArie11 I mean, I'm BROKE and the fire sales of the SD1 is the only reason I even have it. I've handled the fold 3 and just didn't feel the magic. Also been wary of Samsung's one ui while Microsoft's launcher is much more vanilla. Honestly Michael showcased it best in his review, playing a game on the bottom screen while a video plays on top like a magic Nintendo DS is just so sublime. It's great for productivity, great for entertainment, it just suits me I guess.

[@Arxiuz2]

I genuinely hope MS takes in the feedback YOU give them. I really want them to stay in the dual screen game, refine it, polish it, and some day come in with the most refined [ two screen ] foldable phone experience in the near future.

[@rakada]

I wish they would not bring a product before testing it thoroughly.

[@SuWoopSparrow]

@@rakada I wonder in what world do you live in? Most of the problems listed in this video are not even in Microsofts control. Just like when Windows phone was a thing and big app developers would not support them. Maybe petition precious Google and others to play ball better so that innovation can prosper. Beside that, a company needs to make money to continue R&D and get practical feedback from real usage.

[@innovia63]

My least favorite aspect of this phone is the camera. I absolutely hate the camera bump on the Duo 2 because it ruined the gorgeous sleekness of the first Duo. If Microsoft could figure out a way to maintain the camera quality but also have the back be flat, it’d be the best of both worlds.

[@johantiefenbach4056]

They would have to make it slightly thicker.

[@Josh-oc7ib]

The camera still isn't that good which means the bump being there never did anything.

[@Simoneister]

@@Josh-oc7ib I mean, the cameras aren't great. But on the Duo 1 it was literally just the selfie camera. This is a big step up. But still, might just be better to commit to a terrible camera to keep the nice form factor?

[@spdewertton]

I mean they could just sell two versions of the phone, one with the camera bump and one without. Also phones used to be able to kick out decent photos without massive camera bumps, what happened to that tech? Because to my eye, all the Duo 2 samples I saw were worse than samples from the Pixel 4.

[@jakenasz3428]

the hardware of surface Duo 1 is unmatched, it is beautiful and simple.

[@tapdancer4327]

Picked up the duo 1 from eBay for $350 and absolutely love it as a secondary device to use during long commutes on the metro or in a Cafe. It cannot serve as my only device, but I adore it nonetheless

[@1blackbirrrd]

Wow, I'm actually pretty impressed with the improvements. I went with the Fold because I didn't feel comfortable buying a Surface Duo 2 and hoping Microsoft would fix it later down the line, and seeing the fate of the original Duo only backed up that idea. But I'm happy to see Microsoft has made efforts to turn the Duo 2 into a much better device. I hope they continue with a successor with this form factor and knock it out of the park on day 1 with the (hopefully) eventual Duo 3.

[@sumomaster5585]

3 is their magic number but I feel for this case, SD4 is where the vision will finally come to life..Android 12L will likely change too many things and MS they will have to rework many aspects so I am hoping SD4 will finally be there.

[@AllenStanten]

Really appreciate the revisit review! It's rare to see this type of thoughtful review - as a product continues to evolve after it's initial launch - well done! As a Duo owner (first the Duo 1, now the Duo 2) I understand the bugs and issues that this device presents. I think the reason this is such a better device than others on the market is it's targeted market. We live in a world where personal use cases are the dominate framework for evaluating devices (phones), and frankly, that often seems like lazy journalism, to me. I use this device for business use, and I believe it's the best way to evaluate the Surface Duo 2. The specs and the camera are adjacent features for me. My use cases are business focused and as you pointed out, multiple examples of launching 2 apps at the same time, is a productivity win. I can have a Zoom call on one side and Evernote or oneNote on the other, using the Slim Pen to take notes. Also, the simple act of copying from one app or doc, or website and pasting it into the open app on the other screen, is awesome! As a business device, I find the continuous improvements helpful to get more and more value out of the Duo 2. It's not perfect, but it's good enough and getting better. As for price of the device, I agree if you are comparing it to other smartphones at the price point, it doesn't match up with consumer focused use cases, but it blows them away from a business use case perspective. Corporate IT/sourcing organizations are used to paying a premium for "business" versions of tech.

[@hunteragett]

You're the best on youtube! I love your affinity for companies to do something different. It's what pushes the envelope and makes innovation happen. Thanks for all the great content!

[@petepaxton5109]

It's almost December 2023 and I own the original duo and I absolutely love it! 12L fixed a bunch. Works great for me. Got it for $214 new unlocked and maybe one of the best purchases I've made.

[@RubyRoks]

I felt this way when the original Duo launched, had it confirmed when my boss bought one, and still have it confirmed here: the Surface Duo is an amazing platform for people who don't mind carrying purpose built items for things smartphones can do competently. If you have a point n shoot camera you already like, have worn smart watches since the original Pebble, so on and so on and refuse to compromise, then the Duo is a good buy because it is all the phone that person needs and (almost) nothing they don't (screw the Duo 2's camera plateau)

[@spdewertton]

Yeah I feel like 70% of users overpaying for a phone with a better camera would be better served by a mid-tier point and shoot. You really only need a great camera in your phone if you need to be able to stream or upload stuff right away.

[@elturner7241]

Thank you MrMobile for the updated review. I love my original Surface Duo and sometimes consider the Duo 2. A price drop of the Duo 2 is the best recommendation. I still love the form factor of the original Duo, due to it not having the camera hump. I get around the camera issues by using peripheral cameras like the SJCAM C100+ or the HTC RE. I'm sure there are several higher quality cameras out there that can be used the same way. If they make a Duo 3, I'd love to see them get rid of the camera hump (even if it means replacing it with the same camera used on the inside for selfies. There is a market for this device and it's not all about the camera.

[@Dvlx1]

Appreciate the update, Michael. Suddenly I'm interested in this having never been before.

[@useless6234]

I never jumped to the Duo 2, specifically because of the camera bump. But men, the line about coming back? I felt it right in the heart. Every time I've sold a Duo (cause it sucks), I just wanted it back! Now I'm at my 5th Duo, alongside my iPhone 13 Pro. The feeling I get just by touching and opening the Duo is just so unique and charming

[@chasenthehype]

Man this makes me want to jump Apple ship more than ever before. That Duo 2 looked great at launch - but those updates make it look more incredible than ever

[@renaldofriloux495]

Lol

[@secretmanofagent]

As one of the literally dozens of us, the Surface Duo makes a lot more sense when you look at it as a folding tablet. Yes, it is terrible as a phone, yes, it's terrible as a camera (but my Surface Duo folds flat, suck it late Duo adopters), but as a folding eBook, as a one app on one screen and one on the other, it's absolutely brilliant. When I was a kid, I always wanted the book that Penny from Inspector Gadget had, and now I have one. Also, my iPad Mini used to travel everywhere with me, and I haven't used it since I got the Duo. It is essentially the ideal "work" phone, the backup to the personal phone (which does the actual photos). Now, if I could just get the Surface Duo to decide that I still have it completely open without having to close it and reopen it again! It's not that frequent, but still annoying.

[@NL0Gwenster]

Man ! I love your reference of Penny's book from Inspector gadget; i had the exact same brainwave when I 1st saw the Duo. And i fully agree with your statement as havin the Duo as a focused work-phone. Even now, with the Duo 2 being released. I'm looking at the Duo 1 (sleek, no camera bump design that closes like a pocket notebook) to put the Microsoft launcher on, and just use it as my work phone. Cause then i can do a teams meeting on one screen, and have my e-mail etc. open or a reference on the other screen. And use it as an e-book when i`m commuting. I can imagine comic books would especially look cool with the 2-page format. I already separate my work and private life cause i have 2 phones (Samsung for work, provided by work and A Sony xperia I MK 2 for private, which has the camera and media chops with its 4K 21:9 screen) so it's best hardware for each scenario if I use the Duo for work. So I think I will actually buy a Duo 1. But what has me worried is all the reports I see of broken USB-C connectors, that the plastic of the frame near the connector literally breaks off and that sometimes causes a tear that goes all the way up. Have you experienced this ?

[@g.2157]

Your tech videos are always a joy to watch because of the uniqueness.

[@brianwolters7560]

This is an awesome, real and truthful followup. I have the Duo 2 and I used it a good 2 months before becoming tempted by the S22 Ultra if not for the camera alone. On my Duo 2, I also had a lot of frustrating quirks and the camera just isn't reliable enough for me and it is horrible in the dark and video isn't great. But that said, this phone is in my bag and every now and then, I am tempted to pop my SIM back into it. I loved the functionality of the 2 screens, it has made some marked improvement and I loved the notetaking abilities. The Duo2 is the "Almost Phone" for me.

[@ChrisGower]

Glad to see it's improving. I got the Surface Duo one as I had visions of working around the known issues with the first Duo and then it selling me on the Duo2. Instead the experience burnt me. Even at $450, all the issues with the first Duo made me feel ripped off. I ended up selling it for $50 less than I bought it for (I unlocked it, which helped.) Frankly, the form factor just didn't work for me. For all the times that it worked well (at work, etc), it was incredibly frustrating just due to the nature of the form factor. Wanting to quickly use it one-handed, it just doesn't play nice. Doing finger yoga to open it up into one screen mode while worrying about dropping it onto the pavement below was just one example of a time when I cursed the dual screens. Then just the horrific number of software bugs that would make driving with Google Maps navigating dangerous, etc etc. Just the cherry on top. Anyway, glad that Duo 2 has improved, for those that the form factor works for. There's a lot riding on the Duo 3 - as people pointed out, 3 was the first Surface Pro that actually really was mainstream ready.

[@tombaker9341]

this old grandad has 1st generation it's had many updates especially android 12L it's a quality 👌 👏 👍sadly much underrated superior marvellous fantastic reliable DESIGN 👏 product way far superior that Samsung hybrid fold heavy brick yunk am not going back to same old apple 😢 flogged as relaunched brand new rubbish.

[@Ronnet]

The "sequel" isn't the only one that got better. The original Duo is also "good now"... And very affordable. I got it and I love it. If you want a cheap duel screen phone, go with the original.

[@rowan224]

i got my original surface duo at launch and the battery just conked out. out of warranty and not worth it to replace otherwise. I'll miss two screens but its easier to deal with a normal phone I guess

[@jollygreen4662]

Price?

[@Ronnet]

@@jollygreen4662 400 to 600 dollar/euro, depending on where you live.

[@matthewsisson3330]

Og Duo and Duo ² owner here. This device is by far the most interesting and useful utility device I have owned since my BlackBerry Classic. The Your Phone app on windows give me the functionality I had with the BlackBerry windows app. I opt for Gboard out of the box because I still do a lot of speech to text and swift is unusable. Also, I don't care to have the best camera. Sure, this phone has some imperfections, but so does every sports car. Edit: the width of the screens is much more useable and I don't want to ever go back to a skinny slab.

[@TechOdyssey]

Nice to see you take another look at the Duo 2 after it’s received some much appreciated updates.

[@adamalarcon4973]

I've been wanting a tablet the size of an iPad Mini for some time now. I hope by the third iteration, Microsoft finally gets it. I'll probably never get it at its launch price though, maybe when it goes on sale. I think this could really be a useful tool for me. The novelty of having two screens can really benefit me, not to mention the emulation possibilities.

[@TechDove]

I love the into the fold series 😍 I'm a huge fan of foldables!

[@DavidHee]

Thank you for doing a follow up review and giving a better idea how much better it has gotten since launch!

[@kennyt1]

First time I've seen this phone. I love it!! I'm not a fan of folding screens but two separate screens just makes sence. It does seem a little big for a pocket though.

[@jamessteggles6579]

Whenever I see a Surface Duo (or any productivity device) I always find myself lusting after it. I hope that as foldables like the Samsung fold get more popular as an alternative to a tablet that OS developers will iron out those problems.

[@raajsingh5178]

I have the fold 3 and it's an amazing phone u dont have to wait.....iv watched nearly every review of it, but you can only be the judge once you have it in your hands

[@AgentZeroNine1]

This video emphasizes how much Android needs a first party foldable and a first party mini/8" tablet.

[@AMPProf]

or is it the signal coming from the void Calling out for a New OS to replace android

[@robcrichlow7287]

I appreciate you doing this video! I understand that I may be over the top for a phone that provide me the same experience I have on my desktop (two independent screens with a fantastic aspect ratio), but I really believe this phone is better than single screen foldables. As you pointed out, this is subjective and each of us has different goals in a phone. The issue with the links opening on the same screen, is a resent issue provided by an update. I suspect it will be fixed soon, since it worked (opened on a different screen) since the release of the Duo 2. As far as the camera, I really believe except in pretty low light, it does the job for most people who are looking for the features the Duo 2 offers, though I totally get your comparison to the S22, since I used own Samsung phones and appreciated the camera. And finally, your comment about the keyboard is interesting. I have used a lot of smartphones over the years and have used them all with OneNote or the equivalent to take notes. I have not experienced any real difference in the experience with this keyboard, and especially after the updates, have not had any speed problems. However, you may push it harder than I do. Recently I went to Google's keyboard, so I could use the Surface Pen to take notes in the handwriting mode, and it works very well for me either in pen mode or typing / swiping mode. However, your willingness to give this device (I have trouble referring to it as a phone since it is so much more) a very fair review, is much appreciated. I personally follow your channel and really like your reviews. I find them informative and entertaining. So ... Thank You!

[@smithwahl]

I got mine six months ago. I can attest that it has gotten better, much better. I had a hard time with it at first, considering going back to the old phone. But, when I started using it as my work phone, it began to shine. I can't imagine using it for anything else for work. When I go into a meeting, I like that I can take notes, access documents, show presentations, and use Teams or Zoom without any issue. It is the mid point between a laptop and a phone. After I paired it with a watch, it got even better. Now I don't have to open the phone. I recommend the Duo for work. I can't recommend it for non-work-related workflows or scenarios. If you, like me, prefer writing your notes instead of typing, get this the slim pen. My next step it to pair a keyboard and mouse to it. I'm just curious how far I can push it. Great video @MrMobile!

[@zdanee]

I have an LG V50s with the dual screen case, and it can do most of what the Duo 2 can, but I can just pop it out of the case and have a normal candybar phone. It also has a headphone jack, expandable memory _much_ cheaper and I'm not expert on cameras, but I never had a complaint of the one on this phone. I would not exchange my LG for a Duo, I think LG had the best idea on how to make a dual-screen / foldable phone here, they just didn't have the time to perfect the formula. I imagine a world where I can just buy a second screen case for _any_ phone and have a foldable or mini-laptop that way.

[@DoubleAIV]

Damn, completely forgot about that greatness. I really hope Microsoft makes a Duo 3, they're so close.

[@justwork9293]

I can not believe the timing of this video....got a great deal on the Surface Duo 2 but have been debating for the past week to keep it or return it for Z Fold 3 or S22 Ultra. Long time fan of yours from Pocketnow days. Appreciate your work and always look forward to your views on the various products and all other video concepts produced. You are one of the best.

[@pcampane99]

Having two separate screens is the key to truly mobile productivity. A foldable is nowhere near offering that. Barely care about folding over when on the phone as I typically use speaker or BT. Copying from one screen to another is priceless. It really keeps getting better, mostly from videos like yours. Thank you for doing this. I've had the Duo & Duo2 since launch.

[@WillLeingang]

Man how have I not found this channel before? Best reviews ever! Thanks!

[@cadenchurchill4296]

I am so glad to hear the Surface Duo is getting better. Love that Microsoft is doing something different and I really want them to succeed.

[@Mireaze]

I was torn between the duo 2 and the fold 3, ended up with the fold 3 because I trust Samsungs software more. But when duo 3 comes out I'll definitely be considering the switch

[@benjamindover4337]

Same. But Samsungs split screen seems to get more glitchy as time goes on. Even though it is still far ahead of Apple's.

[@Ronnet]

It really depends on what you're looking for. Duo and Fold are only competitors in the "gimmick" department. In the real world they're used for different things. So are you primarily looking to multi task and be productive or are you looking to consume content on a large screen that fits in your pocket? Answer that and you know which one is for you.

[@Mireaze]

@@Ronnet Thank you for explaining my own decisions to me. So helpful 🙄🙄

[@Ronnet]

@@Mireaze Since sarcasm doesn't exist online I'll just say; you're welcome!

[@_bob_8170]

@@Ronnet Im a media junkie so I went with LG Wing, great screen with second screen and still pocketable. Plus I snagged a floor model good_as_new for only $180.

[@steveo3336]

Love the review and that over the years your channel has always featured phones that the every person probably would never purchase, yet we are all interested in. Also that there is always some subtle and no so subtle Star Trek reference in ever review! Kudos and keep up the amazing work sir!!

[@jiml.9026]

I loved my Duo and I love my Duo 2. It is GREAT for someone like me who works in the IT filed. connecting to switches, scanning, and more, I do not have to take my laptop....just my a USB to console cable if I cannot connect to wifi and my DUO 2. so convenient! Yes, there are some bugs, and I have some issues here and there, but I did on all my smartphones, android and apple alike. But my Duo 2 is a beast. Helps me get my job done.

[@MA-th4ts]

Two things surface duo needs…… 1. Guaranteed software update 2. Windows11/current OS dual boot

[@ConnorDunhamFilms]

I wholeheartedly agree! It's terrible that android phone/tablet makers sell devices that don't have a clear timetable for software updates and for how many they will get during the lifetime of you owning their product. I feel like Samsung is doing better at this, but Samsung is not the only android phone/tablet maker out there. I think that the next wave of innovation is having the peace-of-mind of owning a device that has promised OS and security support for years to come.

[@MA-th4ts]

@@ConnorDunhamFilms agreed, imagine the android OS stops getting supported and you just dial-boot to windows. Material never degrade why not the software at that as well.

[@completelymindfucked]

3. I/O 4. modular boards inside 5. hot swappable batteries 6. detachable, magnetic camera module, to lay flat/have good optics. 7. flat screens

[@oneminutewonder77]

You can adjust the keyboard on the Duo, I'm shocked you haven't figured that out. You have to go into the keyboard resize option, and you can drag the keyboard down to the bottom and then change the height of it.

[@TheMrMobile]

I'm aware of that. It pulls the function row from the hinge, but doesn't seem to solve the gap problem down below. Would love to be wrong about this; what am I missing?

[@oneminutewonder77]

When you go to resize the keyboard, the four arrow key in the middle. You have to press and pull it down to the bottom of the screen. It'll bring the space button to the bottom. Then you can pull the height up to the hinge (at least that's how the Duo 1 works) not sure if the curved hinge changes that.

[@TheMrMobile]

Could have sworn I tried that, but I'll give it a shot again. Thanks for the heads-up!

[@oneminutewonder77]

Hope it helps, I'd post a link with a screenshot here but I'm not certain KZbin allows that. It takes a little tinkering but it can be done!

[@TheMrMobile]

@@oneminutewonder77 Update: confirmed, you're right! I guess I spent too long with Gboard and got used to not being able to adjust it. Thanks for the feedback; will pin a correction!

[@rohithramesh9204]

As usual fantastic review by Michael or would I say an excellent 'After the Buzz' video.

[@bowlingdoughnutsmd3703]

Getting the Duo was the first time I was excited about a phone in years. So much that despite getting it on a steep discount, I reached into my pockets and bought the Duo 2 within the month. I can never go back. Can't wait for the Duo 12L.

[@ramkumarpatel9014]

Since windows 11 is arm compatible and phone such as poco f1 can have full feature windows 11, I can't see why Microsoft can't provide a simple way to have windows in it's own arm devices, dual boot with Android maybe, just wild ideas, but not too far fetched and I'm still in love with lumia.

[@SpencerMcGuire]

There is a project that has w11 booting on the sd1, so it's not too far fetched.

[@mvagusta]

Love mine. Daily driver since release day and can't put it down. Could never go back to single screen. It's a machine and with the regular updates any bugs are now gone for me. Battery life isn't the best (5.5hrs).

[@georgeterterya136]

Dou have duo 2?

[@mvagusta]

@@georgeterterya136 Duo 2

[@rhemtro]

I really love this 2 screen form factor, I hope they keep working on it and it gets better

[@Rock2005Star]

Great follow-up review! Love the Meze 🎧 too! 👌

[@mxbblife_mu]

I had the Fold 3 but it was so Weird to get used to being a Surface Duo 1 user. That Tiny front screen was annoying and it was so heavy. My biggest complaint was the fact that you can't multitask with Instagram on the Fold 3. I was hoping to trade it for the Surface Duo 2.once the price went down but I lost it being drunk in Las Vegas Lol

[@wokenfree]

What do you mean you can't multi-task with Instagram? You can use in split screen or pop-up view with no problem.

[@mxbblife_mu]

@@wokenfree lol you need to go try that with Instagram and get back to me....

[@wokenfree]

@@mxbblife_mu kzbin.info/www/bejne/a2rZYpSsltdsrrc goto 2:23. Instagram multitasking with KZbin.

[@taltigolt]

i feel if they made a surface pro in this size with android i'd actually buy it, as in exactly a surface pro but smaller i also don't see why all these foldables have to be unsymmetrical they don't have to be just get rid of those curved corners

[@thisismartinn]

there used to be something called “Surface Neo” that runs Windows 10X but its been cancelled my Microsoft, since… its Microsoft

[@vzx13]

@@thisismartinn lol

[@thisismartinn]

@Laxman Dhotre bruh have you seen the 10X builds? it's buggy, incomplete and especially the Windows x86 app emulator is a horrible mess. at first, they decided to quit the emulator thing and make it a chromebook competitor, then they decided to cancel the entire thing. thats why i said microsoft being microsoft.

[@MKR3238]

Do u still have your fw900 from uncle Vito?

[@emacthawurdsmith]

I have had the duo 1 and 2 since launch and since the updates I use this religiously. I have a few bugs here and there but nothing major and if you use the split screen keyboard option it's perfect for typing. I don't have the issues on tapping on one screen and it shows up on the other. As well as usually when I launch a link from a app or page on one side it does open on the free screen. I recommend it only if you need something for multi tasking those things you mentioned pretty much I think with 12l it will tighten up the experience and the duo 2 will really shine

[@Biotfanime]

Great vid! Wish more tech reviewers would do revisits as these devices get updates for better or worse.

[@yash_kambli]

Im always wondering do we really need secondary screen? Can anybody of u tell me how much useful it is for an average user bcoz when i start thinking about its possible use cases i found nothing but more trouble and gimmicks which may not even worth the price.

[@steveswm7742]

I'd still rather get a good tablet, or a decent laptop. At that price point, ($1500.00) you can get so much more. And as a phone, nothing it offers competes with a flagship smartphone, considering what it lacks.

[@davidy.9524]

I enjoyed your review of the Duo 2. I thought I'd give you my thoughts on the original Duo, now that we have seen so many improvements via updates. I have been viewing a lot of KZbin reviews of the Surface Duo and have found that the people who are making negative comments about it's performance and specs are probably people who shouldn't be using a device like this anyway. That being said, I have been using the original Surface Duo for about twelve months now and I love it. Here's my thougts on the Surface Duo... 1. The Surface Duo isn't a camera. It does have a "webcam" on it that is great for Zoom calls, as you can angle the screen for perfect viewing. It can also be used to take pictures of things like business receipts, images for presentations, scanning documents, etc. As a business person, which is who this device is made for, I don't need a camera to take pictures of family and friends, selfies, or the food that I'm eating at my favorite restaurant. This camera was made for "business" and nothing else! 2. The Surface Duo isn't a video monitor. The Duo has two screens that are intended to help the user become more productive, (completing an expense report on one screen while using a calculator on the other, reviewing your list of e-mails on one screen while reading an individual e-mail on the the other, researching the web on one screen while taking notes on the other, etc.) Other than viewing a short KZbin video, the Duo's screens are not made for recreational video content or games. If that's what you're looking for, buy a Samsung Fold 3. It's great for things like that! 3. I keep my Duo in "notification mode" all day long. That means that the screens are folded back so that I can see my notifications. This is done with an app called, Always On Amoled. While the phone is sitting by me, I can glance at it and see the time, the day, the date and any messages that I have. I have always wondered why so many people have complained about the Duo not having an outside screen. It does!!! Just open it up at the beginning of the day and close it at the end of the day when you charge it. That is why it's all glass. What difference does it make which glass pane you keep exposed? As you can see, this device is neither a phone nor a camera. It is a replacement for our old Daytimers. Granted, almost all phones can do what our old Daytimers used to do and more. But Microsoft has made it a lot easier to do those things a whole heck-of-a-lot faster, thus making us more productive.

[@abcdelicious4420]

So GLAD we got the follow-up review from you as I was seeing some more up to date reviews that the Surface Duo 2 is now ready for use and can be recommended which wasn't the case at launch. So I definitely wanted to see what your opinion of the device was now. I am definitely waiting for this to drop in price some more as I'm Rocking a Fold 3 right now as well as a Xiaomi 11 and wouldn't mind having a Duo 2 as my Back-up phone and just embracing the unconventional/folding phones to the MAX. 📱📱🤳🤳😂😂

[@mabbasi_of]

finally someone understood the main use for this, the main concept: Two screens. The comparison with the foldable one screens always made me sick. This is different category, which I love for multitasking. Yes, the software is the problem, as always.

[@XaeonBE]

Happy to see people do reviews of products after a long time

[@Dare2Blink]

Typing this on a duo 2 and I completely agree with this review with a couple of caveats. The camera, since the last update or two, is launching very fast for me. With regards to quality it's good enough if not great, and if you use Google camera app the quality goes up tremendously in low light. I'm a very happy camper with this device and would not trade it for any device. Im 90% using two apps at the same time and can't see myself going back to a single screen. Not to mention that the pen cover and pen combo makes this the perfect sketchbook /notebook.

[@robinrai4973]

Nice! Good to know it's (mostly) there now software wise. Hardware wise I really dislike that camera bump though, not letting it fold in half completely flat!

[@AdrianFoy]

Great video - loved the follow-up on the Duo 2. I wish the camera's were definitely better, that's a "make or break" for me. The Duo 2 reminds me of LG and their Dual Screen cases...even as I type this on my V60. I felt like if LG could have just hung in there; just a bit more, and pushed some more updates/ polishing it up - the Dual Screen would have taken off. Like the Duo 2 is starting to now. Anywho, just my thoughts :).

[@KrahsThe]

Appreciate the review. I'm finding outlook and teams brilliant on it. I use it as a productivity device.

[@markpoint1351]

thanks for the revisit mrmobile as i still have the the duo 1 and have an absolute love/hate relationship with it... lol i'm so getting the duo 2 but this time i will wait for the price to drop... its nice to know that "improvements" are being made and this is a very knish phone for people with a certain life style... i really don't like the camera bump as well but the thing looks gorgeous in black with those curves... most thing i love about my duo is that i find it perfect one hand typing :)

[@zsmorr92]

I have an original Surface Duo I got a few months back (was able to find it new unlocked for about $400). I've never really used it as an actual phone (Z Fold 3 is my main phone). But I still love the Duo for a few odd specific tasks, and I really enjoy the concept a lot.

[@henrythex]

"I keep coming back to the Duo 2..." This got me mate. I love watching your reviews. I feel sad just like you, appreciate not only just for the sake of being different, but why being different. Because it's truly good. e.g. Windows Phone was deeply emotional in my heart, so does NOKIA Pureview camera stories, qwerty keyboard dreams and Duo wishes that purhaps never will come true... My wife and I used Duo for 2 months both of us. We ended up return it due to bugs. But what bugs me for not wanting to buy Duo 2 are not only for bugs but also for 3 big troubles: 1 too much bezel (not only asetics but also limited landscape video watching experience) 2 doesnt lay flat on the table any more (not only ugly, but also bad for drawing on table cause right hand side wabble) 3. no qwerty keyboard to make it truly PRODUCTIVITY beast. If only Microsoft buys Planet Computers, maybe we will see the perfect Psion keyboard in Microsoft Trio Pro?

[@kendon81]

I watching this on a Samsung fold 3.......and I'm eyeing up the folded folio set up rather enviously........I like how they went with the hinge and book desgin and didn't try to hid it.

[@Adelzu]

As a dad, my daughter always play with my phone. And a foldable is quite fragile considering how kids treat phones. I probably will wait for the Duo 3 and get one then. Great video!

[@uhmump95]

The HTC Tilt was my one of my favorite smart phones. I liked the fact that it looked like a mini laptop as well.

[@notpenguino]

The "it's not the phone you remember" line went so hard🔥🔥great revisit.

[@cavegamer5989]

Another solid video! Keep it up dude! You're awesome.

[@cathomas72118]

I use two screens on my computer at work and I notice it a lot when I use my one screen lap top for play. Two independent screens are something I could make good use of. If they fix the bugs and get that camera working and flat. (Like the Galaxy Note 10!) I would consider it. Just to be different.

[@MJG70]

I love ALL your Vids. I can't agree with you on your love for ALL Star Trek but you are the best tech reviewer on the planet!

[@DoubleAIV]

My wish list for Surface Duo 3: - Stylus docked into the device via Galaxy Note(without adding bulk). - Outside screen for quick notification reads. - Eliminate camera bump so when folded outward the device is flush, comfortable to hold(Idc about camera quality) - Standard spec upgrades.

[@bigsoda]

Seriously, the camera bump is so terrible looking. I had a Duo 1 and was excited for the Duo 2, and was really upset to see the camera bump. Part of what made the Duo 1 so appealing was its incredibly slick and sleek form factor, which is just ruined by the camera.

[@DoubleAIV]

@@bigsoda yeah that sleekness in the 1st Duo was almost a selling point alone for me. They have to fix it, but they're really missing out on not including an ejectable stylus. It would give this an edge over the Galaxy Fold.

[@tre-ou5gt]

amazing! love the versatility of this :D

[@monteconstable4844]

I like you enjoy forward thinking and unusual tech. The Duo2 fits that for sure. I do have to wonder if software can truly best two physical displays in terms of productivity, but it's clear folding screens have an advantage for consumption and single screen phone use. But man for Teams calls or doing more than one thing at a time the Duo2 delivers well most of the time compared to when it launched

[@JAZIBKALEEM]

I was honestly about to consider this, because one of my main reasons for switching from iOS to Android was split screen and multiwindow apps. The bugs, the under optimized Android, the lack luster UI, and the poor camera don't justify the price. I can compromise on the camera, but other bugs keep pushing me away

[@yves2075]

I have a Duo 1. I briefly used a friend's 2, then got back to the 1 with no regrets. The updates in Q1/Q2 2022 did a good job. I'm no gamer, no photographer, I just want the productivity of 2 screens, and/or screen+keyboard in laptop mode. My ideal Duo? A thinner, nearly invisible central gap, a non-protruding camera, dual boot (Windows on ARM with easy desktop mode: external screen/keyboard/mouse + charging in one simple dock). Then you have a killer.

[@photobriangray]

I got the OG Duo, sans useless camera bump, for $350, unlocked it from ATT and have been enjoying the recent updates. I just don't use the camera. Great for media consumption, multi-tasking, home automation control (AVR remote/Streaming App) and e-reader duties. I love it, but not if it were much more than $500.

[@oatikodi]

So many of those things, minus a few but plus a lot more is how I use my dual screen v60. It's having the two screens side by side and able to operate independently (like now as i have mewe on one screen and KZbin on the other, switching over to Google TV controller, holding it like a book in one hand). And even better I can slip out one screen to work as a thin slab. At some point a duo with windows would be interesting.

[@TimMug]

Regarding the lack of Span functionality for more apps, and going back to your original phrasing about adding a feature from more capable desktop PC's, I would say that is a fine tradeoff for the functionality that a second screen gives. Android's multi-window support is good from what I can remember using.

[@HDHasTe]

Always a fan of Mr.Mobile reviews ever since the pocketnow days. Would love to see a VS when and IF the pixel watch finally comes out vs the Galaxy watch 4. Since the watch 4 has gotten a lot of updates now

[@tayfuntuna]

Watched it on Duo 2. So many correct points. Nice video!

[@shaneintegra]

Wow!!!!! This looks absolutely amazing. If they actually polished this up with higher specs it would completely DESTROY

[@civiljet]

I love my Duo 2, warts and all. I feel like this is a more productive foldable than the fold 3 just due to the simplicity of pulling up another app on your other screen. I'm not a big camera user, so the trade-off there is fine, though I understand where folks are coming from when citing poor image quality. Hopefully the surface teams rounds this device out even more, I'm excited for the coming improvements.

[@greenEYEDdj]

Was litterlay asking myself when you would cover all the new updates to the s duo 2. Awesome.

[@diegomontoya8889]

I was sitting next to a very suave Asian man on the flight from Chicago to Seattle this past weekend and he pulled this thing out of his bag and I was like, "What is that!?" (In my head). I knew about the Surface, but did not know this existed. Nice review. I am 92% sure my seat buddy worked for Microsoft...

[@jdnorton22]

I recently bought the duo 2 and am enjoying being super productive. This phone is everything the firs duo should have been. No regrets here. Thanks for showing this device some love, Michael.

[@Ragna___]

Maybe the best implementation of a foldable smartphone. No bents or cracks. That sound capture from the Surface Duo 2!

[@cubaroberts508]

I'm grateful for this video. Because Mr. Mobile revisited the device, I looked into Show. It has improved significantly with the software updates and it's really cheap now.

[@MillenniumFalcon]

Now I really really want one because you sold me with the DS games feature and how good Microsoft apps and Kindle look and the new Android 12 that will make it all even better.

[@tiemji]

I love your french 😏🙂 . Happy with my Surface Duo 1 but still hoping for better camera integration on ver 3 for the sleek design .Thanks for the long term review

[@jakenasz3428]

if you can purchase surface Duo one from swappa for less than $400 it is a major win, with the new software updates the device flies. it's an awesome little pda/tablet thing.

[@startedtech]

Hope we can see a throwback Into the Fold video with the Kyocera Echo eventually!

[@chriswilcox8977]

If Apple can do anything like this for iPhone, I’m in. I was so close to the Surface Duo before jumping to iOS for the first time…it’s still not there though, yet still has so much potential.

[@ThierryTiramisu]

5:34 cool mini set-up! :)

[@tams805]

It looks like a great device, and I'm glad it's out there for those who want it. But the sheer width of it is too much for it to be a main mobile device for me. I can deal with the girth of the Fold, because it is also not very wide and fits in most pockets easily. And I know it adds to the cost and bulk considerably, but having a *third*, *outer screen* really is helpful (and let's you do some neat extra things too).

[@gregwhates5948]

I adore my Duo. It does have its problems, like every phone, but it is closer to my ideal device than anything else I've owned. Oh, and it still gets "wow, what is that" comments every day!

[@jturner134]

I have had my Duo 2 for about a week now. With the price drop that Best Buy had on the phone I decided to give it a try. So far I have been really impressed with the two screens the phone offers and I do agree with the downsides you identified in the video. The camera is underwhelming, my other phone is a Pixel 6 Pro with the best camera on a mobile device. The other area I do find as a downside is the managing of two separate accounts between Microsoft and Google. I am use to having the Google apps being the primary on my Pixel 6 Pro and find it a bit challenging to always remember they are secondary on the Duo 2. Overall I do enjoy the Duo 2 and I am still looking to discover all the new ways I can increase the usage of the second screen as I explore the phone.

[@mippengbg]

Love this videos.. But I would really need help with a "laptop replacement comparison".. What would it be to replace the laptop with some kind of "wearable" device? Is there "small computers" that is better than for example the duo 2? Is any of the screen foldable phones better suited for "computer work"?

[@mcgrud]

Watched this from my Surface Duo (original). I love my buggy little phone. Can't wait for the 3rd iteration! 😁👍👍