Microsofts Surface Laptop Ultra is an AI supercomputer dressed as a laptop

Microsoft has unveiled a new laptop aimed at challenging Apple's MacBook Pro - the Microsoft Surface Laptop Ultra. This device packs a powerful punch, featuring either a 5,120-core GPU or a 6,144-core GPU and a 20-core CPU. Memory options range from 24 to 128GB, with storage capacities available in 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB. The Surface Laptop Ultra is available in two colors, Platinum and Nightfall.

The laptop's impressive specs make it ideal for developers and AI creators. It can run local AI agents with over 120 billion parameters, comparable to the most powerful MacBook Pro. The screen boasts a 15-inch PixelSense Ultra display with a resolution of 3,270x2,180 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. The battery provides 12 hours of web usage or 15 hours of local video playback. The laptop weighs just 4.5lbs and is 18 millimeters thin when closed.

Microsoft positions the Surface Laptop Ultra as an alternative to the MacBook Pro, highlighting its Magnetic Connect feature - essentially a USB-C charging port with magnetic capabilities. Pre-orders start at $2,599, while the most powerful version costs $5,899.99 and becomes available on October 16. For those who prefer a stripped-down version, the Surface RTX Spark Dev Box is available, offering the same AI performance in a compact form factor, ideal for developers. It is available for pre-order at $5,999, starting in November.