'Microsoft Surface Book 2' release date, news: Laptop to be Microsoft's most powerful one yet?

A promotional image for the Microsoft Surface BookMicrosoft official website

A lot of speculations has been made regarding a rumored Microsoft Surface Book 2 that could rival Apple's MacBook Pro 2016. No information has been released yet, but fans are already making assumptions based on what Microsoft has shown on its Surface lines during the Microsoft Windows 10 event last Oct. 26.

According to Tech Radar, rumors point to early 2017 as the launch date of Microsoft's new device. Like what was previously reported as the expected features of the Microsoft Surface Pro 5, the same could be speculated with the new Surface Book.

One thing that is a must for the newest device is the Intel's next-generation Kaby Lake processors, which will be needed to power the alleged higher-definition screen. With this in place, operating via 4K resolution and 3D graphics with the new Surface Book 2 should be more or less possible.

With great resolution comes the need for greater power, thus the battery life will need to be improved as well. Rumors also point to a surface pen, thus a charging dock would be needed in the said device. There is also word that Microsoft is aiming to pair it with a stylus that has a built-in rechargeable battery, which the company has a patent for anyway.

Aside from the features described, Game N' Guide also reports that although the external look may be the same with the existing Surface Book, the internal components may bring about a big change. Microsoft may opt to put in the Xbox Play Anywhere program, unifying all of its devices.

Despite the hype for the Microsoft Surface Book 2 and rumored release date, there are unconfirmed allegations that it could be pushed back to 2018, considering that the demand for the existing Surface Book remains relatively high. Nonetheless, this is still a win-win situation for Microsoft as it buys them more time to develop their product.