Microsoft Surface Pro 5 release date, specs rumors: Upcoming device to come with battery updates, Kaby Lake processor

Clarissa Partosa Sunday, March 05, 2017

An image of Surface Pro | Wikimedia Commons/Vernon Chan

A whole new set of features, including enhanced battery life and a new Intel processor, are bound to be included in the Microsoft Surface Pro 5. Meanwhile, a new patent has been submitted to add another feature onto the Microsoft Surface Pen.

Microsoft released its Surface Pro 4 back in October 2015. However, despite its enhanced features, the Surface Pro 4 had battery life deficiencies and sleep mode issues that shadowed its performance. However, a firmware fix was adapted to clear out these battery problems.

The Microsoft Surface Pro 5 is anticipated to be introduced to the market early this year, and according to Digital Trends, it is logical for it to be equipped with Intel's Kaby Lake processor and a 4K display option.

Aside from this, a USB Type-C port to unify the Pro 4's single USB 3.0 port, display port, and SD card reader is expected to be found in the Microsoft Surface Pro 5. To address its predecessor's battery issues, the Surface Pro 5 is also anticipated to have enhanced battery performance to avoid the recent issues.

Channelpro also shared that based on recent sources, the Microsoft Surface Pro 5 will also have a Windows 10 Redstone 3 update.

Meanwhile, the Surface Pen will also be getting new features. Wincentral reports that the Surface Pen will come with a rechargeable battery.

The patent that was filed reads, "A stylus may provide active functionality that is powered by a rechargeable battery. A charging circuit within the stylus may provide charging current for recharging the battery via one or more terminals configured to contact charging contacts of an associated stylus charger," indicating that the Microsoft Surface Pen will now be rechargeable, as compared to its current source of power: AAA batteries.

Aside from this, a new patent was recently submitted to enhance the Surface Pen to add a "color sensing tip."

The new Microsoft Surface Pro 5 is anticipated to be released this 2017.