Just in case you're wondering about the "Launch Day Update" you might be reading about for the Duo: that software is what this review was based on. Reviewers started on 2020.723.130 and were updated to 2020.812.86 on or around Sept 4. The reason the retail devices are getting OTA updates today is because they've been in transit/in stores sealed in boxes. (TLDR: the reviews you're seeing are based on the current software. There's not -yet- a magic update that fixes everything.)
Will you do a follow-up review on this phone? I love the idea of this device, but I dislike how Microsoft expects developers to pay this much in order to test out their apps. Apple made a development kit for ARM (which is a huge software change compared to folding phones) and it's cheaper than their base config Mac mini.
Best Buys by me do not have it on display and my AT&T store says we can show it to you, but still not on display - I was so hopeful - this saddens me. It is just too expensive to compromise too much. But I will still check it out.
@@nikolaos9652 His videos are definitely not as good as they used to be. Tbh, I don't blame him. I don't think he can be too controversial because of how many subs he has
Not Strange but NEW. Phones are super tired... Time for different more usable devices. I bought one of these yesterday and will never go back to a "Candy Bar phone"
@Fly Guy how about it so far? Longtime Note user here, currently with Note 9, but disappointed with the 10 and 20 iterations, so considering options for the next year. The Surface Duo seems something I could go for, but, as MrMobile said, not truly going to spend all that cash for a 1st gen product, and may wait for 2nd gen
This guy is disgrace to humanity, how do you write a title like this. It is a marvelous piece of technology, even though it has flaws. Even with its flaws, it has achieve something that put all the Samsung garbage in shame. What a shame!
@@MCAlexisYT The car is not half-baked but neither is it fully baked: weather and rust proofing concerns, the paint damages far too easily, cargo space and many of the conveniences aren't thought through, and Tesla is still learning on this generation. There should be a number of small very useful and meaningful changes for the gen 2 which I would have preferred, eg a ski pass-through, HVAC knobs, or better cargo options for families. If you have no more than one child atm the car is fine but with two or more, a minivan is still the king.
@@drdann2251 We should be concerned though, because they both have the same title, and both him and MKBHD said not to buy it because it's first gen. This implies that Microsoft do in fact brief reviewers on what to say, despite the fact that he states that he is impartial.
Svetlana Vivalova I’ve got to agree with Carlo on top of me. Saying Microsoft, who purposefully had a separate hardware and software embargo to allow them time to fix more bugs, told reviewers _not_ to recommend their device… well, that’s some next level conspiracy theory.
For anyone curious: I got the duo recently used from someone selling a barely used one locally. With the newest update as of July 27th, a lot of the bugginess is still around. Gestures work near flawlessly and after a week I prefer them over the traditional Android home bar, but swapping screens can be quite finicky, especially if you're just trying to use one as at times it will randomly turn the other one on, resulting in your keyboard freaking out for a brief moment at first. The haptics aren't delayed anymore for the keyboard both in portrait and landscape modes. It's oddly enough best to type using the screen with the ear piece as the keyboard on the bottom and the app you're typing in on the other one. Would not buy this brand new but for such a neat device, especially for emulation since you can split screen down the middle and give each player their own screen when the phone is tented. If you can find it for $600 like I did, I still recommend it, but only if you're patient with bugs like I am
It looks really beautiful, but yeah these software bugs and touchscreen issues are quite a big dealbreaker. I really hope it improves over new generations. Thanks for the video, man!
@@aizfaizie919 they messed up on the specs, a phone like this must have high 120hz and 12gb ram.. It would of been a beast and beautiful... They need to make the bezel thinner...
I have this phone it is by far the best phone I've ever had, I know all these Old reviews wouldn't have you believe it but these are old reviews, the phone has been massively improved since this review. I wouldn't trade it for any phone, once you get used to using two big screens at all times it is pretty hard to go back to 1 regular screen. The camera may not be the best but NOBODY ever complains about the quality on social media, Ever.
As usual there is little if no follow up. The reviews are posted and they are off to the next one. By the way, although they have not received compensation for the review, they did receive a free review handset. Nice! Wish I could get a free one to try it out! Since the price has dropped substantially, it's a new ball game. Check out some of the more current reviews and perhaps one from Mr. Mobile that I didn't see it. And for those looking for perfection......well... must be pretty frustrating!
@@yennefer559 if you ever seen it in person...it's more like 2 tablets. Its so wide that Just 1 of the Screens is almost the same size as the Fold full screen.
I hope this dual-screen/foldable experiment goes on so we can have a 'When Phones Were Fun Vol.2' in 2030 or something. Hope you still make amazing videos then.
@@hendrixdaemon7419 Yeah Android is not meant for such uses cases by default. It needs a ton of OEM optimization and software tweaking for things to work in a dual screen config (or anything other than a simple 16:9 display)
Yep, and I think using Android as the OS was the problem here. If this is not meant to be a phone, they could've just used Windows. Or they could have made a new Windows Mobile OS based on their Windows tablet. Hopefully better OS to come in the future.
Watching from my lg g8x, bought cause of you. The removable second screen has never felt more appreciated just cause I can remove it when I don't need it
@@Sharky165 G8x definitely not getting 11. Only the higher end phones such as G8, V50 and V60 will. Lower end phones (-s and -x) such V50s or G8s will not because LG doesn't consider them as flagships.
You also know there is no expectation of privacy in public right? If privacy is a serious issue for you, go off grid, never use your real name, never have any bills, credit, bank cards, bank accounts, or even go outside.
I would be curious to know how this device is holding up today. They made a new one but now this device is becoming pretty affordable. I heard they fixed the 2 somewhat, did any of those fixes come to the 1?
I've been a Early Adopter since the Nokia N97 days..... I have no problems with Bugs I can't wait to get this device for 4 reasons: 1.) It's STILL THE ABSOLUTE Coolest Sci-fi looking device that will Turn Heads where ever I go. 2.) The Sheer Screen Real estate w/the Pen. 3. And being an Early Adopter means going through all the phases that this Beast of a device comes into its own with software updates. 4.) Having a discount as a trade-in when the Microsoft Surface Duo 2 comes out.
Z Flip and/or Z Fold would like to have a word about the first bullet point lol. Hard to turn more heads than flipping a normal-looking smartphone closed with an audible clap. Also the one hand open flip is always a favorite in line at Starbucks
I remember as a child in the mid-80's when I was in a grocery store with my father and we were at an aisle where they were selling calculators, and my father remarked to me "never buy a brand new version of something, you're paying them to work out the bugs" as apparently pocket calculators came out in the early 70's and they didn't work that well, but a decade later we were looking at models with no deficiencies.
I feel like this will become the new PDA, something I'm all for. In the future I'd love to have one, especially as a writer who can't carry a full computer everywhere.
Yeah they they should have just had Windows X with access to android apps "if" we want to do the app thing. But then again the only apps that actually function as they should are the Microsoft ones 🤯
I really hope the Duo improves in its next iterations. I LOVE the idea of the form factor. And I hope they use windows as the native software because I think now with the advent of dual-screen laptops, or at least laptops with extra screens, that OS might be more compatible with this form factor than Android which is only made for the slab format. Let's see what Android 11 brings tho. Still rooting for the little guy and see where it goes! So sleek! 2021 is going to be an exciting year in tech!
Thanks for the review. I was going to impulse buy this but i realized long ago waiting for reviews is best. Here is hoping in a few months we will hear this thing is in a better place.
What with the ironing out of some of the bugs this is the sort of phone that will have a cult following and large screen / productivity fans will look back longingly after its discontinued and you can't get it anymore.
After looking at updated reviews it seems like the software bugs have mostly been ironed out and I just bought a used duo 1 for 200 bucks! Stoked to play around with it as a secondary device
Just the aesthetics of Michael's videos tell you this is not an ordinary tech channel. Looking forward to more content, and congrats on a long overdue 1 million subs.
I can confidently say you are the only reviewer on youtube. Reviews that talk about experience, use cases of devices practicality. Other review channels cry half the time about specs in thier videos and complains on niches.
I picked up the Surface Duo roughly a week ago. I love it. But for every positive attribute, there is a negative quirk. +Looks and feels like a premium device! +The hinge is amazing! Stops at any angle. No problem. -When folded open, the back screen will occasionally forget to deactivate. + The more squat, 3:2 screen ratio really grew on me! Easier to reach the top of the screen one handed. Perfect ratio for online video consumption. +(Tablet) Great multi-tasking possibilities. + Dual screen is a Great viewing experience. Easy app use. - The gap between screens is small, but can be distracting during playback. +/- Software is hit or miss! - Activating dual screen app use can be a touchy. + With an app launched on one screen, your home screen apps will automatically slide to the unused screen. - Screens will at times, not register touches. - During dual screen use, device will briefly chug and slow down. - While charging, device becomes EXTREMELY HOT! - With apps launched on both screens, Navigating the launcher becomes extremely cumbersome. - Only a single loud speaker, volume is low and metallic sounding. The Surface Duo is an amazing device. A few too many quirks to be a daily driver. But it makes an EXCELLENT companion device!
Idk why ppl hate this phone, it's amazing, yes the Z fold 2 crushes it, but the price difference is worth it 😊, my only problem with the Duo is the camera, that thing sux
Seeing the Duo .. I feel LG's implementation of V60 or Velvet makes more sense with low price and flexibility of using as regular phone or dual screen phone. LG's V60 with dual screen at 900 usd or 800 usd is too good to ignore
The Lumia 930 is still my favourite of the all the phones I owned, I miss Windows Phone, real shame how the updates broke it, and the lack of support it had, I still have it sitting in my desk drawer.
@@manthe3711 the fact that you jump to racism being the reason for his preference of Mr. Mobile's reviews over MKBHD's is more indicative of *you* being racist rather than Dylan/Sarim
Lol...it might be telling that I'm upgrading from that RED to this Surface Duo. Is my decision making proof that you shouldn't buy the first gen Surface Duo?
@@TheMrMobile Also MrMobile: "And the fact that Amazon Kindle lets you split a book across pages makes this my new favorite phone for reading." MrMobile, 2017
@@pureawkwardness415 Thanks bro for reminding him of what he said in the past. These tech reviewers only bother using devices for 2 weeks, they easily forget what they said 2 years prior.
It was clear from the first day the RT was underpowered. Had MS only waited a month or two they could have released it with the Tegra 4, a FAR superior SoC. But low performance hurt both sales and reputation too much for it to turn into a viable product, even one from MS.
Picked one up for $360 off Amazon Renewed and couldn't be happier. Couple that with Echo frames sale during Prime Day and I feel like I'm from the future. Thanks to all that returned them.
SwiftKey is excellent actually. I've been using it for more than 6 years now. And as much as i try to use Gboard, it just feels vastly inferior. And the predictions, are just miles ahead.
I used gboard in the past but feel it's gotten worse over time. I never really liked swiftkey as much as everyone else seems to either. A year or so ago found a happy home post-gboard in the BlackBerry software keyboard
The design of this devices makes me wish someone would create an e-ink ebook reader in this foldable dual screen size and style. I’m glad you mentioned that in your review. Not with a foldable screen, just dual screens like this.
Lovely intro Michael.... to be very frank, the most important and attractive part of your videos are those amazing and creative intros.... keep up the great work brother. Just saw the Razr 5G video and now I am here right away 👍🏼
Been watching this guy for over 8 years now from back when he was at Pocketnow and he is easily the best reviewer, has an excellent speaking voice and has outstanding cinematography
ughh, I was so hopeful 🥺🥺 I think I'm probably gonna get the Z Fold 2 instead, but I'll wait a couple weeks just to see if there might be some early software updates fixing everything :/
@omar vasquezSurface Duo's (meaning dual Screen device) competitor is other dual screen devices like LG V50, V60, Velvet. Galaxy Z Fold 2's competitor is Huawei Mate XS because they're actually folding display devices.
@@vervetech9395 different form factors, the v60 dual-screen case can't be compared to the foldables, same with the Duo. One thing to notice is that this form factor is meant to be a tool and for productivity, and the foldables are meant to be your phone and 2 in 1 devices.
@@yagosalaverry9884 Great. You realized that the Duo isn't meant to be compared directly to folding screen devices. The experience is like comparing a single ultrawide monitor to two monitors close to each other.
I hardly ever use the camera on my phone, so this device will be perfect for me. Because this time Microsoft is using Android , there are no shortages of apps. I have no doubt future updates will iron out the glitches.
Michael, thanks for the review. This was pretty much my exact concern with this device. And I'm really hoping things turn out in a similar way they did with the surface, but I'm fairly pessimistic about it for now. I guess the dream of owning a device that feels like it's from the future will still have to wait.
@@guyver2006 Mine just got delivered! Going through all the day one updates but can't help but wonder if Microsoft's awesome insurance option requires the use of the bumper. Anybody know?
@@RedTick2 super jealous I'm still watching out the window like a sad puppy. Was hoping to play with it on my lunch break. Enjoy and let me know any cool things you see.
@@hassanger8128 Don't let that get you too down. Most reviewers feel an obligation to give as much detail about a review as possible so they can't get called out for possibly overlooking something. In my use over the last hour with it I can already tell they are splitting hairs OR the day one update has made a lot of improvements. I grant you that I have not had it long and I am a ideal Microsoft customer for this device. But all that said it truly is a phone experience unlike any other I have ever had.
Definitely knew there'd be sacrifices being an early adopter. I'm probably going to mourn such sacrifices, but I feel like contributing to something I believe in for the long run. This is the second product I've ever pre-ordered, the first being the reMarkable 2 shipping to me this November. What matters to me is that I show Microsoft and other companies that there is an audience for this form factor. If Microsoft cancels any plans for the typically better second generation due to low interest, I'd be quite bummed that I didn't at least try to show support. And with an offer of $550 to trade in my Note 9 when I would struggle to sell it for $400 on eBay, Microsoft has certainly made this easier on me. Here's hoping for a bright future for the Duo 2, and the Duo 1
Something like the duo could be great for studying - keep the textbook open on one screen, take notes/write your essay/stream a lecture on the other. I've wanted something like that for years, something that'll let me bring a relatively large display without having to lug around a large laptop.
I love my Surface Duo, I know a lot of people online have had issues with their devices but I haven’t experienced any issues. I don’t leave home without it and when I’m at work I pull it out before I take out my Surface Pro 7
I'm looking forward to you doing a retrospective with this when it's been running for longer and maybe has had some of these software derps ironed out. I'm praying that the lagginess you described with the keyboard is down to optimization issues. I'm sure the folks doing the Windows skin of Android specifically for the Duo had their hair on fire to get it out the door for the launch update, and probably still didn't iron it out, probably working through some of the more obvious issues. I really hope you're right and this doesn't become yet another Microsoft mobile product that they can instantly.
I've said it a million times. Make the inner seams of the screen waterfall style a la samsung. This would fix two things; much smaller bezel through the center of the screen while in horizontal orientation, and when closed the waterfall screen would be visible thus allowing you to see notifications when closed.
@07:24 - Star Trek Slack Channel! Man of culture 💯 Beautiful review and brilliantly written, as always! Always a joy listening to you speak and watching your fantastic content!
Speaking of android 11, I just received the android 11 update a few days ago! As far as I'm aware it's currently available on the Google pixel devices as well as one plus, Xiaomi, and Huawei devices. I'm not sure about all of them though
I just found your channel a few days ago, and I've gotta say, I'm really loving the mix of content you have. I like getting to see the retrospective looks at older phones, and you do really indepth reviews for the new hardware as well.
I bought a Lumia 950 XL a year after it launched for 350€. It was a great phone with an awesome camera and its only problem ended up being the battery life after 4 years of use and switching the battery to a new one.
You are right, microsoft has problems with registering different touched and gestures, because i tried to use Microsoft launcher on my phone, and that's the main reason I couldn't use. It lags so much and it always registers my touches falsely.
![MrMobile [Michael Fisher]](http://yt3.ggpht.com/Bf8B_79jyHxP6CVnjV5WKws93l9Vxlk0d7aPmcBygTBDKzgsGrpazdJRFUrfg1sUNlo8YX8rji8=s48-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj)
Just in case you're wondering about the "Launch Day Update" you might be reading about for the Duo: that software is what this review was based on. Reviewers started on 2020.723.130 and were updated to 2020.812.86 on or around Sept 4. The reason the retail devices are getting OTA updates today is because they've been in transit/in stores sealed in boxes. (TLDR: the reviews you're seeing are based on the current software. There's not -yet- a magic update that fixes everything.)
Yes we can understand problems with pre-mature software. But companies try to fix if it is included in their priorities
Will you do a follow-up review on this phone? I love the idea of this device, but I dislike how Microsoft expects developers to pay this much in order to test out their apps. Apple made a development kit for ARM (which is a huge software change compared to folding phones) and it's cheaper than their base config Mac mini.
Best Buys by me do not have it on display and my AT&T store says we can show it to you, but still not on display - I was so hopeful - this saddens me. It is just too expensive to compromise too much. But I will still check it out.
The Surface Duo is a phone, a bad phone
What was that keyboard you were using Michael?
Beautifully written and excellently delivered as always.
Jesus man calm down. It's a dude on RUclips doing the exact thing 50 other guys are doing, just with more narcissism.
get a room
**MKBHD and Mr Mobile upload at the same time**
Me: "The correct answer is Mr. Mobile"
whynotboth.jpg
Yep. MK pretty much just narrates the specs with glamour shots of the device.
Exact same here, haha!
@@nikolaos9652 His videos are definitely not as good as they used to be. Tbh, I don't blame him. I don't think he can be too controversial because of how many subs he has
@@TheMrMobile
Touché Michael
Mr. Mobile: I love strange form factors...
Everyone: We know, you have an entire series covering STRANGE FORM FACTOR
Not Strange but NEW. Phones are super tired... Time for different more usable devices. I bought one of these yesterday and will never go back to a "Candy Bar phone"
@@AA-flyguy did you buy Samsung or Microsoft?
@@andrewsiwale1053 Microsoft Duo 👍
@@AA-flyguy wow thats an expensive decision
@Fly Guy how about it so far? Longtime Note user here, currently with Note 9, but disappointed with the 10 and 20 iterations, so considering options for the next year. The Surface Duo seems something I could go for, but, as MrMobile said, not truly going to spend all that cash for a 1st gen product, and may wait for 2nd gen
Man what a wonderful review. The best in the Biz for a reason!
This guy is disgrace to humanity, how do you write a title like this. It is a marvelous piece of technology, even though it has flaws. Even with its flaws, it has achieve something that put all the Samsung garbage in shame. What a shame!
@@seanleith5312 take it you don't like Samsung.
@@Supraboyes Of course I don't like Samsung, a Korean company, why the hell do I like a Korean company? That's nuts.
@@seanleith5312 what's wrong with a Korean company. Especially Samsung they lead the way in alot of tech.
@@seanleith5312 btw Im no Samsung fan boy.
MrMobile: "You should never buy a product based on future promises."
(Tesla has left the chat)
it's more like:
Musk: hold my batteries
Tesla owner here: you are correct, wait for gen 2 of the model 3. Ideally the wagon.
whÿ? XD
Lol don't upset the Tesla fans
@@MCAlexisYT The car is not half-baked but neither is it fully baked: weather and rust proofing concerns, the paint damages far too easily, cargo space and many of the conveniences aren't thought through, and Tesla is still learning on this generation. There should be a number of small very useful and meaningful changes for the gen 2 which I would have preferred, eg a ski pass-through, HVAC knobs, or better cargo options for families. If you have no more than one child atm the car is fine but with two or more, a minivan is still the king.
The Verge's title: 'Microsoft Surface Duo review: double troubles'
Me: Y'all shall fight to the death for the right to keep the title.
Why should he change? They're the ones who suck
Mr. Mobile v The Verge: Double Trouble Trouble
@@drdann2251 We should be concerned though, because they both have the same title, and both him and MKBHD said not to buy it because it's first gen. This implies that Microsoft do in fact brief reviewers on what to say, despite the fact that he states that he is impartial.
@@svetlanavivalova6543 yeah, 'cause Microsoft definitely tells them to say not to buy their own device. Yeah... sure
Svetlana Vivalova I’ve got to agree with Carlo on top of me. Saying Microsoft, who purposefully had a separate hardware and software embargo to allow them time to fix more bugs, told reviewers _not_ to recommend their device… well, that’s some next level conspiracy theory.
“The weirdo I want to love” great quote! Extra points for the inspector gadget book reference, totally forgot about that thing.
I'm loving the vibe of this review. Ace as always
yeah,
More often than not, it feels like Mr. Mobile is the only reviewer who really *gets* what a given device is supposed to be.
Yeaa
Dude, I skipped an MKBHD duo review video to see his review first.
The music in the be go
Especially the intro music
For anyone curious: I got the duo recently used from someone selling a barely used one locally. With the newest update as of July 27th, a lot of the bugginess is still around. Gestures work near flawlessly and after a week I prefer them over the traditional Android home bar, but swapping screens can be quite finicky, especially if you're just trying to use one as at times it will randomly turn the other one on, resulting in your keyboard freaking out for a brief moment at first. The haptics aren't delayed anymore for the keyboard both in portrait and landscape modes. It's oddly enough best to type using the screen with the ear piece as the keyboard on the bottom and the app you're typing in on the other one. Would not buy this brand new but for such a neat device, especially for emulation since you can split screen down the middle and give each player their own screen when the phone is tented. If you can find it for $600 like I did, I still recommend it, but only if you're patient with bugs like I am
It looks really beautiful, but yeah these software bugs and touchscreen issues are quite a big dealbreaker.
I really hope it improves over new generations.
Thanks for the video, man!
I agree.
Agree. Although need wider sample size of reviews.
But seamless software was supposed to be the big draw here
You shouldnt have to wait for Gen 2 for software fixes, that should come to this device with future updates.
The biggest deal breaker for me is the touchscreen issues. Input lag frustrates me more than software glitches.
@@aizfaizie919 they messed up on the specs, a phone like this must have high 120hz and 12gb ram.. It would of been a beast and beautiful... They need to make the bezel thinner...
I have this phone it is by far the best phone I've ever had, I know all these Old reviews wouldn't have you believe it but these are old reviews, the phone has been massively improved since this review.
I wouldn't trade it for any phone, once you get used to using two big screens at all times it is pretty hard to go back to 1 regular screen. The camera may not be the best but NOBODY ever complains about the quality on social media, Ever.
As usual there is little if no follow up. The reviews are posted and they are off to the next one. By the way, although they have not received compensation for the review, they did receive a free review handset. Nice! Wish I could get a free one to try it out! Since the price has dropped substantially, it's a new ball game. Check out some of the more current reviews and perhaps one from Mr. Mobile that I didn't see it. And for those looking for perfection......well... must be pretty frustrating!
not a phone, a phablet
@@yennefer559 Phablet is a phone...PHONE plus Tablet.
@@mxbblife_mu DUH. but it´s not a phone, it´s a MIX between a phone and tablet. it´s neither a tablet nor a phone
@@yennefer559 if you ever seen it in person...it's more like 2 tablets. Its so wide that Just 1 of the Screens is almost the same size as the Fold full screen.
I hope this dual-screen/foldable experiment goes on so we can have a 'When Phones Were Fun Vol.2' in 2030 or something.
Hope you still make amazing videos then.
Well, no.
This is not a fun "phone"
When "devices" were fum
"3 different flavors of sometimes" what an amazing name for an album
0:17 that windows xp grass hill wallpaper gives me nostalgic feels
They call it Bliss
So it’s a classic Microsoft problem: Great hardware but trashy software.
the android OS underneath is the problem here
@@hendrixdaemon7419 Yeah Android is not meant for such uses cases by default. It needs a ton of OEM optimization and software tweaking for things to work in a dual screen config (or anything other than a simple 16:9 display)
They has great os windowsmobile but died project.
Yep, and I think using Android as the OS was the problem here. If this is not meant to be a phone, they could've just used Windows. Or they could have made a new Windows Mobile OS based on their Windows tablet. Hopefully better OS to come in the future.
Definitely looking forward to the second iteration.
Watching from my lg g8x, bought cause of you. The removable second screen has never felt more appreciated just cause I can remove it when I don't need it
Question for you: Do you think LG will provide an Android 11 update ?
I was told they did update the G8x from Pie to Android 10.
@@Sharky165 G8x definitely not getting 11.
Only the higher end phones such as G8, V50 and V60 will.
Lower end phones (-s and -x) such V50s or G8s will not because LG doesn't consider them as flagships.
Great review! Also I really appreciate that you take privacy serious when bluring people inn the background. :)
You also know there is no expectation of privacy in public right? If privacy is a serious issue for you, go off grid, never use your real name, never have any bills, credit, bank cards, bank accounts, or even go outside.
@@celebrityrog Still commendable he took the effort to protect their privacy.
I would be curious to know how this device is holding up today. They made a new one but now this device is becoming pretty affordable. I heard they fixed the 2 somewhat, did any of those fixes come to the 1?
I've been a Early Adopter since the Nokia N97 days..... I have no problems with Bugs I can't wait to get this device for 4 reasons:
1.) It's STILL THE ABSOLUTE Coolest Sci-fi looking device that will Turn Heads where ever I go.
2.) The Sheer Screen Real estate w/the Pen.
3. And being an Early Adopter means going through all the phases that this Beast of a device comes into its own with software updates.
4.) Having a discount as a trade-in when the Microsoft Surface Duo 2 comes out.
Muyanzi Reid hey that last point you mentioned should be promoted
Z Flip and/or Z Fold would like to have a word about the first bullet point lol. Hard to turn more heads than flipping a normal-looking smartphone closed with an audible clap. Also the one hand open flip is always a favorite in line at Starbucks
I remember as a child in the mid-80's when I was in a grocery store with my father and we were at an aisle where they were selling calculators, and my father remarked to me "never buy a brand new version of something, you're paying them to work out the bugs" as apparently pocket calculators came out in the early 70's and they didn't work that well, but a decade later we were looking at models with no deficiencies.
I wish WINDOWS OS was still alive. Would love to buy a lumia 😍
It had promise for sure, lacked market share 😟.
ErikTheRed Yea! That OS could have given iOS a run for money
I'm still missing my Lumia phones :c seeing MS making Android devices really hurt a lot.
I feel like this will become the new PDA, something I'm all for. In the future I'd love to have one, especially as a writer who can't carry a full computer everywhere.
Dude, ur keyboard is gorgeous!!!
Can anyone tell what's it named? And where can I find?
Yes indeed what keyboard is it?
@@SarvagunSomePun its named "qwerkywriter"
That's a typewriter lol 🤣🤣🤣🤣
I came here for this comment :)
My inbox said: 💣 "it's a boy!"
Use me as the "I am confused" button
😂😂
Komal Patel It’s a new meme lol
Yeah they they should have just had Windows X with access to android apps "if" we want to do the app thing. But then again the only apps that actually function as they should are the Microsoft ones 🤯
Just purchased a 256 gb Duo for $325. Amazing device.
Smart move!
I really hope the Duo improves in its next iterations. I LOVE the idea of the form factor. And I hope they use windows as the native software because I think now with the advent of dual-screen laptops, or at least laptops with extra screens, that OS might be more compatible with this form factor than Android which is only made for the slab format. Let's see what Android 11 brings tho.
Still rooting for the little guy and see where it goes! So sleek! 2021 is going to be an exciting year in tech!
Lot of compromises for that amount of money... Give me an LG and the option to use (or not) another screen
Thanks for the review. I was going to impulse buy this but i realized long ago waiting for reviews is best. Here is hoping in a few months we will hear this thing is in a better place.
What with the ironing out of some of the bugs this is the sort of phone that will have a cult following and large screen / productivity fans will look back longingly after its discontinued and you can't get it anymore.
After looking at updated reviews it seems like the software bugs have mostly been ironed out and I just bought a used duo 1 for 200 bucks! Stoked to play around with it as a secondary device
Michael after smashing the duo: Microsoft provided no compensation
Me: Yeah, I can see that
Software bugs worry me. The whole point was seamless software.
I want to love this but to me LG V60 does more, for $600 less
Hey I just read "Devil in the white city" a few weeks ago! damn good read. I cant wait for my Z fold 2 to arrive.
Just the aesthetics of Michael's videos tell you this is not an ordinary tech channel. Looking forward to more content, and congrats on a long overdue 1 million subs.
Appreciate the review, might I ask what that ‘typewriter’ blue tooth keyboard device is called and do you like using it? Thank you
I can confidently say you are the only reviewer on youtube. Reviews that talk about experience, use cases of devices practicality. Other review channels cry half the time about specs in thier videos and complains on niches.
4:44 Man, I wanna see this but with manga and comics. It would be the ultimate reader.
I picked up the Surface Duo roughly a week ago. I love it. But for every positive attribute, there is a negative quirk.
+Looks and feels like a premium device!
+The hinge is amazing! Stops at any angle. No problem.
-When folded open, the back screen will occasionally forget to deactivate.
+ The more squat, 3:2 screen ratio really grew on me! Easier to reach the top of the screen one handed. Perfect ratio for online video consumption.
+(Tablet) Great multi-tasking possibilities.
+ Dual screen is a Great viewing experience. Easy app use.
- The gap between screens is small, but can be distracting during playback.
+/- Software is hit or miss!
- Activating dual screen app use can be a touchy.
+ With an app launched on one screen, your home screen apps will automatically slide to the unused screen.
- Screens will at times, not register touches.
- During dual screen use, device will briefly chug and slow down.
- While charging, device becomes EXTREMELY HOT!
- With apps launched on both screens, Navigating the launcher becomes extremely cumbersome.
- Only a single loud speaker, volume is low and metallic sounding.
The Surface Duo is an amazing device. A few too many quirks to be a daily driver. But it makes an EXCELLENT companion device!
Microsoft: *No, you can’t just say that it is not a phone.*
Everyone else: *Haha, laptop goes tiny.*
More like everyone: you can't just say thats not phone
Microsoft: haha little laptop go brr
Idk why ppl hate this phone, it's amazing, yes the Z fold 2 crushes it, but the price difference is worth it 😊, my only problem with the Duo is the camera, that thing sux
Verge and Micheal Fischer has same video title. I mean reviewers running out of anecdotes?
"Brute force" a category into existence. I loved that!
I remember when mr. mobile used to do mobile re-do when he'd look back on a phone if it got better or worse. Kinda miss that.
Seeing the Duo .. I feel LG's implementation of V60 or Velvet makes more sense with low price and flexibility of using as regular phone or dual screen phone. LG's V60 with dual screen at 900 usd or 800 usd is too good to ignore
V60 the best
I have V60 and velvet
The Lumia 930 is still my favourite of the all the phones I owned, I miss Windows Phone, real shame how the updates broke it, and the lack of support it had, I still have it sitting in my desk drawer.
The struggle of When I see mkbhd and mr mobile upload at the same time and y’all gotta chose witch one To watch first
That's racist!!!!!!!!!!!!!
@@manthe3711 the fact that you jump to racism being the reason for his preference of Mr. Mobile's reviews over MKBHD's is more indicative of *you* being racist rather than Dylan/Sarim
@@TheJunky228 Thank you.
It's a highly promising design. I'm excited to see where this ends up on the 2nd or 3rd gen. Awesome work bro!
7:25 RED's phone... LMAO
Still waiting for the accessories RED
Lol...it might be telling that I'm upgrading from that RED to this Surface Duo. Is my decision making proof that you shouldn't buy the first gen Surface Duo?
6:35 ... That was gold. The phone gave a middle finger when you double tapped... 😂😂
MrMobile: This is my favorite 1400 dollar ebook
ZTE Axon M: You used to love me
MrMobile: No, that's not true.
@@TheMrMobile Also MrMobile: "And the fact that Amazon Kindle lets you split a book across pages makes this my new favorite phone for reading." MrMobile, 2017
@@pureawkwardness415 Thanks bro for reminding him of what he said in the past. These tech reviewers only bother using devices for 2 weeks, they easily forget what they said 2 years prior.
Your's is 4k at the moment, MKBHD's hasn't processed in 4k yet. As always , thanks for the ultrawide aspect ratio!
Got like 5 notifications for reviews; watching Fisher's first.
Something about the campiness of Michael’s videos is relaxing to watch - like old CNET videos
“The weirdo I want to love”
-Mr.Mobile
-My Wife
If the Nintendo DS was made in 3009
9:40 I owned the Surface RT. It didn't age well.
It was clear from the first day the RT was underpowered. Had MS only waited a month or two they could have released it with the Tegra 4, a FAR superior SoC. But low performance hurt both sales and reputation too much for it to turn into a viable product, even one from MS.
Picked one up for $360 off Amazon Renewed and couldn't be happier. Couple that with Echo frames sale during Prime Day and I feel like I'm from the future. Thanks to all that returned them.
SwiftKey is excellent actually. I've been using it for more than 6 years now. And as much as i try to use Gboard, it just feels vastly inferior. And the predictions, are just miles ahead.
For me it's the other way around. I've tried SwiftKey a bunch and Gboard works way better for me.
chuckS I second that
I used gboard in the past but feel it's gotten worse over time. I never really liked swiftkey as much as everyone else seems to either. A year or so ago found a happy home post-gboard in the BlackBerry software keyboard
The design of this devices makes me wish someone would create an e-ink ebook reader in this foldable dual screen size and style. I’m glad you mentioned that in your review. Not with a foldable screen, just dual screens like this.
0:33 Got to love that slight Calvin and Hobbes shot! ❤
12 minutes of review and at end I'm like it ended so soon. That's the quality of Fisher! 🙌
MrMobile: Great Fan of ur reviews and ur voice 👍👍👍
You have motivated me to start my own youtube channe! 🙏🙏
Lovely intro Michael.... to be very frank, the most important and attractive part of your videos are those amazing and creative intros.... keep up the great work brother. Just saw the Razr 5G video and now I am here right away 👍🏼
STILL getting this Beast.
Mine is on its way.
I'm grateful for you guys 1st gen buyers, because of you there'll be a continuation on this kind of device
@@justinedzard agreed. These people are gems for the tech world.
Canary in the coal mine
@@justinedzard Yes I agree with you!
Thanks for being a beta tester and spending $1400 :p
Been watching this guy for over 8 years now from back when he was at Pocketnow and he is easily the best reviewer, has an excellent speaking voice and has outstanding cinematography
Wait a minute.....you're allowed to show software now???
It’s launch day 😁
@@Rylet now it all makes sense
You are the only reviewer who, at least for me, really understood the idea behind the Duo, it's not a smartphone, it's more like a foldable tablet.
ughh, I was so hopeful 🥺🥺 I think I'm probably gonna get the Z Fold 2 instead, but I'll wait a couple weeks just to see if there might be some early software updates fixing everything :/
Idk why people compare this dual screen device directly to the Z Fold 2 which is a real folding screen device
@omar vasquez no it's not
@omar vasquezSurface Duo's (meaning dual Screen device) competitor is other dual screen devices like LG V50, V60, Velvet.
Galaxy Z Fold 2's competitor is Huawei Mate XS because they're actually folding display devices.
@@vervetech9395 different form factors, the v60 dual-screen case can't be compared to the foldables, same with the Duo. One thing to notice is that this form factor is meant to be a tool and for productivity, and the foldables are meant to be your phone and 2 in 1 devices.
@@yagosalaverry9884 Great. You realized that the Duo isn't meant to be compared directly to folding screen devices. The experience is like comparing a single ultrawide monitor to two monitors close to each other.
I hardly ever use the camera on my phone, so this device will be perfect for me. Because this time Microsoft is using Android , there are no shortages of apps. I have no doubt future updates will iron out the glitches.
He did it! Windows XP classic wallpaper 😂
Michael, thanks for the review. This was pretty much my exact concern with this device. And I'm really hoping things turn out in a similar way they did with the surface, but I'm fairly pessimistic about it for now. I guess the dream of owning a device that feels like it's from the future will still have to wait.
One thing is certain, foldable devices are the future.
As a Brazilian I get really worried when I see someone carrying an expensive money slab around just exposed to the world and all the hands in it.
Watching duo reviews all day while I wait on the Fedex truck!!!!
Literally doing the same thing! Im looking at seeing how it will run some VM and do a few other things.
@@guyver2006 Mine just got delivered! Going through all the day one updates but can't help but wonder if Microsoft's awesome insurance option requires the use of the bumper. Anybody know?
Me too, but the reviews has killed my excitement
@@RedTick2 super jealous I'm still watching out the window like a sad puppy. Was hoping to play with it on my lunch break. Enjoy and let me know any cool things you see.
@@hassanger8128 Don't let that get you too down. Most reviewers feel an obligation to give as much detail about a review as possible so they can't get called out for possibly overlooking something. In my use over the last hour with it I can already tell they are splitting hairs OR the day one update has made a lot of improvements. I grant you that I have not had it long and I am a ideal Microsoft customer for this device. But all that said it truly is a phone experience unlike any other I have ever had.
Definitely knew there'd be sacrifices being an early adopter. I'm probably going to mourn such sacrifices, but I feel like contributing to something I believe in for the long run. This is the second product I've ever pre-ordered, the first being the reMarkable 2 shipping to me this November. What matters to me is that I show Microsoft and other companies that there is an audience for this form factor. If Microsoft cancels any plans for the typically better second generation due to low interest, I'd be quite bummed that I didn't at least try to show support. And with an offer of $550 to trade in my Note 9 when I would struggle to sell it for $400 on eBay, Microsoft has certainly made this easier on me.
Here's hoping for a bright future for the Duo 2, and the Duo 1
Wow Double things!!! Double Satisfaction with Android Os!!! Perfecto. Looking forward to other Project Surface Neo!!! Big is Better Yay 😀😁😀
Something like the duo could be great for studying - keep the textbook open on one screen, take notes/write your essay/stream a lecture on the other. I've wanted something like that for years, something that'll let me bring a relatively large display without having to lug around a large laptop.
This was a horrible product.
I love my Surface Duo... Best phone I ever had
The most unbiased , specific criticism - always discussing the Cons and Pros in a interesting and a non-dramatic way..You are the best MrMobile 🙏
I love my Surface Duo, I know a lot of people online have had issues with their devices but I haven’t experienced any issues. I don’t leave home without it and when I’m at work I pull it out before I take out my Surface Pro 7
Can you do an update video? The updates have fixed pretty much everyone of those touch issues.
I'm looking forward to you doing a retrospective with this when it's been running for longer and maybe has had some of these software derps ironed out. I'm praying that the lagginess you described with the keyboard is down to optimization issues. I'm sure the folks doing the Windows skin of Android specifically for the Duo had their hair on fire to get it out the door for the launch update, and probably still didn't iron it out, probably working through some of the more obvious issues. I really hope you're right and this doesn't become yet another Microsoft mobile product that they can instantly.
I just love the look of that keyboard. Reminds me of using old typewriters
This man's video production quality is out of this world!
Mr. Mobile, pandemic or not, you are still the best Tech reviewer on RUclips. Nobody connects with the audience like you do.
Mr Mobile pulling a MKBHD: "Been using this for 2 weeks"
You have a voice for radio/podcast and a mug for RUclips.
More importantly, you have fantastic journalism skills.
I've said it a million times. Make the inner seams of the screen waterfall style a la samsung. This would fix two things; much smaller bezel through the center of the screen while in horizontal orientation, and when closed the waterfall screen would be visible thus allowing you to see notifications when closed.
@07:24 - Star Trek Slack Channel! Man of culture 💯
Beautiful review and brilliantly written, as always! Always a joy listening to you speak and watching your fantastic content!
Speaking of android 11, I just received the android 11 update a few days ago! As far as I'm aware it's currently available on the Google pixel devices as well as one plus, Xiaomi, and Huawei devices. I'm not sure about all of them though
$1500 for big ass bezels NO way.
I just found your channel a few days ago, and I've gotta say, I'm really loving the mix of content you have. I like getting to see the retrospective looks at older phones, and you do really indepth reviews for the new hardware as well.
You're the ONLY reviewer who gets into the use-cases with depth. Thanks!
I bought a Lumia 950 XL a year after it launched for 350€. It was a great phone with an awesome camera and its only problem ended up being the battery life after 4 years of use and switching the battery to a new one.
That rounded corner makes it not symmetrical when closed. Better sharp edges
grats on 1 mil, happy to see your channel grow
You are right, microsoft has problems with registering different touched and gestures, because i tried to use Microsoft launcher on my phone, and that's the main reason I couldn't use. It lags so much and it always registers my touches falsely.