The list of Surface Duo2FCC shows "Wireless power transfer", but that may not be what you think

The list of Surface Duo2FCC shows "Wireless power transfer", but that may not be what you think

Microsoft's second attempt at an Android smartphone, the Surface Duo 2, is very likely to make an appearance at the company's Surface event this Wednesday. And while we've already heard some very promising things about the core specs, the device's FCC listing helps to fill in some gaps quite nicely.

The confirmation of Wi-FI 6, multi-band 5G, NFC, and ultra-wideband is very welcome, but particularly interesting is the mention of "Wireless Power Transfer".

However, Windows Central, which first spotted this listing, is skeptical. Such an upgrade would require a built-in charging coil, which would take up a lot of space. Given that the leaked images of the Surface Duo 2 we've seen show a device as thin as the original (when open), that feels like a tall order. Even if the coil itself could be mounted, overcoming the heat generated in such a small area seems like too much of an engineering challenge.

Despite this, the listing says "wireless power charging"; Windows Central speculates that this is inductive charging for accessories, perhaps a version of the Surface Pen made for mobile use. If correct, it could be compatible with the iPad Pro's ability to magnetically attach and charge the Apple Pencil, but the site admits that there is little mention of the Surface Pen in the leaked information so far.

We'll have to see what Microsoft announces at Wednesday's event. A recent listing for the Surface Duo 2 on Geekbench suggests that the company has learned the lessons of the previous generation, with flagship internals that complement the form factor. The listing confirms the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 chipset and 8GB RAM. Photos also show a triple-camera array, targeting another weakness of the original: photography. There is also talk of a higher refresh rate screen.

With Samsung lowering the price of the new Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3, Microsoft will be under pressure to do the same with its two-screen devices. Previously available for $1,400, the price was quickly reduced, at one point dropping to $410. It will be interesting to see how aggressively Microsoft intends to price the Surface Duo 2 this time around.

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