Redmond, Washington - Is Microsoft finally going to release the much anticipated Surface Duo 2? The tech giant just announced a suprise hardware event which is sure to include some exciting reveals.

The big drop is set for September 22, according to 9To5Google.

Many fans want to see the addition of NFC capabilities that can turn their Surface Duos into actual transaction machines instead of having to use a smart watch or additional phone.

On that same note, having 5G capabilities would probably be a baseline requirement.

Many complained online when the foldable Surface Duo tablet premiered that the lack of an outside screen meant the phone always had to be opened to check notifications or reject a call, or the user had to purchase a smartwatch separately to see those notifications along with that needed NFC capability.

There were images leaked in July of a new device that seemed to sport a rear camera sensor instead of just a front selfie camera. But having a large rear bump for the camera unit could cause problems for when users need the device to lay flat, particularly when drawing or writing.

The last Microsoft hardware event was in May 2020, when the Surface Go 2, Surface Book, and Surface Headphones were announced.

Could this year finally bring dedicated Microsoft smart watches? It doesn't look like it, but fans are rooting for Thunderbolt capabilities, bringing the tablet in line with Apple iPad specs to support external Thunderbolt display connectivity.