Surface Duo gets its first firmware update on launch day. Here is what's new and fixed.

Surface Duo Os Update
Surface Duo Os Update (Image credit: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • The Surface Duo has a launch day firmware update.
  • The update improves device, calling, and camera stability.
  • Software updates roll out in stages for the Surface Duo.

As is often the case with new hardware, the Surface Duo has a launch day update. The update improves device stability, camera stability and performance, and improves calling on the device. It also enhances gestures for moving apps around the device. The firmware update brings the Surface Duo to version 2020.812.86 on unlocked devices and version 2020.812.87 on AT&T locked devices. This firmware update is the same update that reviewers received on September 4.

This update should also bump the Android security patch to September 5th and is the same one Surface Duo reviewers received a few days ago.

Surface Duo checks for OS and system updates during the out-of-box-experience and device setup process for new owners. While you can skip this process (and do it later), this update does bring many improvements that you will want right away.

The full changelog of the update appears on the new Surface Duo update history page, which might be worth bookmarking. The page points out that updates for the Surface Duo roll out in stages, so you might not see this update right away.

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Firmware versionUpdate info
2020.812.86 (Unlocked Device)2020.812.87 (AT&T Locked Device)• Device stability improvements.• Camera stability, performance, and image quality improvements.• Improved application gestures for dismissing and moving apps to full screen.• Improvements in calling features and stability.

Microsoft also outlines how to update your Surface Duo.

  1. Connect to a Wi-Fi network.
  2. Select Settings on your Surface Duo's home screen.
  3. Select System.
  4. Select System Update.
  5. Select Check for update.
  6. Select Restart now.

While the firmware update for the Surface Duo will help your device's software run smoothly, you'll also want to make sure to protect its hardware with one of the best Surface Duo cases.

Microsoft Surface Duo

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Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_. 

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