The awaited USB-C dongle for Surface laptops should land later this year

by Matthew Adams
Matthew Adams
Matthew Adams
Windows & Software Expert
Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things... read more
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USB-C, otherwise Type-C, is the latest connector for data transmission. That is the newly emerging industry standard connector which an ever-expanding number of devices are incorporating.

However, with the exception of Surface Book 2, Microsoft has not added any USB-C connectors to its latest Surface laptops. To address the lack of USB-C support, Microsoft chief Mr Panay announced last year that the software giant was planning to launch a USB-C dongle for the Surface Pro.

I love the technology in Type-C… When Type-C is ready for our customers, to make it easy for them, we’ll be there… If you love Type-C, it means you love dongles. We’re giving a dongle to people who love dongles.

Yet, the promised USB-C dongle for Surface laptops never materialized last year.

However, Panay has now made it clear that Microsoft has not abandoned its plans to release a Surface Pro USB-C dongle. Panay stated that a Type-C dongle is still “on the roadmap for later this year.” The Microsoft chief has not provided any clear release date for the dongle, but confirmed one will launch before the end of this year.

Microsoft’s USB-C Docking Adapter will probably connect with the Surface Pro’s Surface Connect port. That port also supports monitor connectivity. Thus, the new USB-C dongle might enable Surface Pro users to connect Type-C cables with Type-C VDUs (Visual Display Units).

microsoft surface pro

Given that MacBooks now support USB-C, Microsoft has been slower to adopt the latest connector tech than Apple. Some might wonder why Surface devices do not already support USB-C. One Microsoft spokesman explained:

Our customers tell us that the vast majority of the peripherals they currently need and use are USB 3.0 compatible, which is why we are offering this port in the Surface Laptop.

Nevertheless, Panay’s confirmation that a USB-C dongle is still “on the roadmap” highlights that Microsoft is gradually starting to embrace the new USB-C connector. For further details about some of the best Windows 10 laptops that already include USB-C ports, check out this post.