Microsoft is taking all the necessary preventive measures to make sure that the new Surface Book 3 is a winner, especially when it comes to previous “hot bag“ issues.
Slated for a May 21st launch, the Surface Book 3 is currently being tested to ensure that the previous thermal issues faced by users of the original Surface Book and Surface Book 2 is a thing of the past.
Lack of Low-Power Sleep Mode
The main problem with the preceding Surface Books was that they weren’t able to enter into a low-power sleep mode. In other words, the devices stayed in an active power state that not only resulted in higher power consumption but generated more heat as well.
The two biggest disadvantages of this mishap? Reduced battery life and an extremely hot exterior surface when taken out from any insulated storage bag.
The severity of the situation forced Surface Chief Panos Panay to announce a new firmware to solve this power problem, and Microsoft has pulled through with improvements to the battery life, along with display and system stability.
“Today’s updates include a set of Microsoft and Intel driver and firmware updates for Surface Book and Surface Pro 4 that will help you get the most of the power management options that Surface is designed to offer and continue to make your Surface more productive,” Panay had said in a blog post.
Microsoft’s Take on the ‘Hot Bag’ Scenario
Microsoft has recognized this scenario as a serious problem “that can destroy your device.“
At the moment, the company is testing the heat buildup capacity of Surface Book 3 test units by placing them in insulated backpacks. Additionally, it has also fitted several thermal insulators in the device to regulate the temperature at all times.
This is Still A Precaution and Not an Absolute
While the steps taken by Microsoft are certainly commendable, there is still a probability that your Surface Book 3 might have thermal issues.
The possibility, however, has been minimized.
The company has succeeded in developing a cooling system that is efficient with minimal fan noise or thermal problems. Let’s hope that the results are better this time.
