Everything you need to get started on Surface Duo

The day has come. It’s Surface Duo launch day! If you’re one of the lucky ones to have gotten your device already, I’ve put together this compilation of how-to’s and tips to help get you up and running and making the most of your Surface Duo or Surface Duo 2.

First-time setup

Getting Started: Just unboxed your new Surface Duo? There are a few things you’ll want to do first and foremost. I cover the basics from powering on the device for the first time, signing in, and getting the hang of navigating Android with gestures.

Using an eSIM: If you carrier supports eSIMs, you can get Surface Duo connected to their network without a physical SIM card.

Factory Reset: Considering this is a brand new device, you shouldn’t need to do this, but if at some point down the line your Surface Duo isn’t behaving normally, a factory reset could solve the issue.

Getting familiar with Surface Duo

Answering Calls: Really? Yes. Surface Duo being a foldable device with no external display, there are some interesting new ways to answer and ignore phone calls!

Taking Screenshots: A commonly used feature, yet every device has it own unique button combos and methods.

Make the most of Surface Duo

Surface Duo and Windows: In this how-to, I’ll walk you through pairing Surface Duo to the Your Phone app on Windows 10 or Windows 11, enabling you to make and answer phone calls, text, access your Surface Duo camera photos right on your PC.

Become an Insider: Once and Insider, always an Insider. Here’s how you can continue to get early access to new features right on your Surface Duo!

Apps Optimized for Duo: Surface Duo is a unique device, and developers have already started optimizing their apps to deliver exceptional dual-screen experiences. This list of Surface Duo optimized apps will continually be updated as new apps become available.

Accessories

Attaching the Bumper case: Every Surface Duo comes with a bumper case in the box. While useful to protect your device from drops, this is no ordinary case, as it can only be attached once. So use this guide to do it right the first time.

Pairing Surface Pen: Surface Duo supports pen input, making it a great notetaking device. Here’s how to pair your new Surface Slim Pen, or your existing Surface Pen to your Surface Duo.

Xbox & PlayStation Controllers: Who doesn’t want to play a game on one screen while being on a Teams call on the other? Let’s get your Xbox or PlayStation controller connected so you can do just that!