Archive · 8 Oct 2026
Microsoft Opens Surface Laptop Ultra Preorders for Local AI Workloads
Microsoft has announced a new, powerful laptop called the Surface Laptop Ultra.
People can preorder it now, and it is expected to go on sale October 16.
The least expensive model costs $2,599.
Some versions can have as much as 128GB of memory.
Microsoft says the laptop can run very large AI programs on the computer itself, instead of sending all the work to the internet.
It also has a bright screen and several ports for connecting accessories and monitors.
Microsoft announced a separate computer for AI developers, too.
That device starts at $5,999.
Microsoft opened preorders for its 15-inch Surface Laptop Ultra, unveiled at an October 7, 2026 event in San Francisco.
The laptop starts at $2,599, with sales beginning October 16; configurations range up to 128GB of unified memory.
Microsoft says the device can deliver up to 1 petaflop of AI performance and run models with more than 120 billion parameters locally.
Features include Nvidia’s RTX Spark Superchip, a PixelSense Ultra display, Magnetic Connect charging, and ports for connecting up to three external 4K screens.
Microsoft also announced the Surface RTX Spark Dev Box, starting at $5,999, and additional local AI software and tools for Windows.
- Who
- Microsoft announced the Surface Laptop Ultra and Surface RTX Spark Dev Box.
- What
- Preorders opened for the 15-inch laptop, which Microsoft says is designed for demanding local AI workloads.
- When
- The products were announced at an event on October 7, 2026; the laptop is scheduled to go on sale October 16.
- Where
- The announcement was made at a Microsoft Windows and Surface event in San Francisco.
- Why
- Microsoft is targeting developers, creators, and professionals seeking high computing power for AI workloads that can run locally.
Microsoft’s claims
Reported availability
128GB configuration
Microsoft’s claims
Microsoft says the laptop can be configured with up to 128GB of unified memory.
Reported availability
CNET reported that the 128GB version was already listed as out of stock on October 7.
- Starting price
- $2,599 for the Surface Laptop Ultra
- Laptop sale date
- October 16
- Maximum laptop memory
- Up to 128GB unified memory
- Claimed AI performance
- Up to 1 petaflop
- Claimed local model capacity
- More than 120 billion parameters
- Dev Box starting price
- $5,999
- 128GB laptop availability
- CNET reported it was listed as out of stock on October 7.