Microsoft hasn't given up on its aspirations to create a unique, if not niche, smartphone for its loyal Surface fans. With last year'sSurface Duo , the company took a novel approach to the standard smartphone. Instead of putting out yet another rectangular Android phone, the Duo featured two impressively thin displays, held together by hinges, that made it possible to fold the phone in half. Unlike Samsung'sGalaxy Z Fold that actually has a screen that folds in half, the Duo had two displays that are physically separated. 

As is often the case with first-generation devices, the Duo wasn't all that impressive. I purchased one and returned it within 30 days (Microsoft offers a 60-day return policy). There was clear potential with the phone, but I felt the concept was a better fit for a tablet (or even a laptop). 

Fast forward and Microsoft is ready to ship theSurface Duo 2 . There are some modest changes to the second generation device, including a speedier processor, better cameras and it runs Android 11.

Microsoft Surface Duo 2

pros and cons

• Battery life
• Performance
• Two screens are better than one

• Mediocre camera
• Awkward design
• Expensive

I've been using the Surface Duo 2 as my main Android phone for two weeks now, and have a good feel for what I like and what I don't. I'm going to stick to my original plan and live with the Duo 2 for an extended amount of time, but here are some of my thoughts after using it for a couple of weeks. Let's start with my least favorite part of the Duo 2. 

Get a case. Or at least, be more aware of how you're carrying the Duo 2. 

Let's be honest