Surface Duo gets a big Microsoft Launcher update, some UI elements now visually on par with Duo 2

Microsoft might have just backed off its plans to deliver Microsoft launcher updates via monthly security updates on the Surface Duo and Duo 2. Spotted by Windows Central, Microsoft Launcher on the original Surface Duo has just gotten a big update, bringing it visually up to par with the new Surface Duo 2.

Now up to version 6.211102.0.1017440, this new Microsoft Launcher version brings over some of the visual designs from the Surface Duo 2 over to the Surface Duo 1. That includes a new app draw, which now has more rounded corners and a grab bar on the top. Even the Your Feed has been updated, with more transparency, and rounded effects to match what’s seen in Windows 11. Microsoft’s official changelog is below.

• Launcher’s feed and overall design were updated.
• The News feed experience was enhanced.
• The toggle between work and personal apps was improved.
• Additional filters are now available to improve searching.
• Other known bugs were fixed, and improvements were made.

Surface Duo 2 owners also got this same update, but it apparently does not bring any big changes. It’s great to see these changes come to the original Surface Duo, despite the original alarm of launcher updates only coming with software releases. This is all apparently because Microsoft faced a blocking bug and internal software issue, which has since been fixed. We still are awaiting Android 11 on the Duo, however, which was promised by the end of the year. But with less than 15 days left in 2021, Microsoft is now pushing it close but there could be hope on the horizon after today’s Launcher update.