MSFT Blows it Again

While firmware updates are supposed to fix, enhance, and optimize elements of your kit, a recent release from Microsoft for its new Surface Pro 2 tablet appears to have done exactly the opposite, leaving many frustrated owners with under-performing slates.

Realizing the update was less than perfect, the computer giant on Wednesday pulled it, though the move came more than a week after it was released. It’s not known how many people downloaded it in that time, or indeed how many tablets were adversely affected, though a related thread on a Microsoft forum currently runs across 21 pages.

While many users apparently hadn’t even been able to make a successful install, some of those that did manage to load up the firmware are reportedly experiencing issues such as noticeably shorter battery life, trouble using Wi-Fi, and even difficulties in putting the tablet to sleep or shutting it down.

Microsoft announced it was pulling the update in a post on the forum.

“To ensure the best experience for our customers during the holiday season, we have taken steps to remove the update for Surface Pro 2 that was previously published through Windows Update,” the company said.

In a move that’s bound to irk those who’ve already downloaded the flawed firmware, the post went on to say that the company is working on “an alternative update package” that won’t be released until “after the holidays.” Exactly how that ensures “the best experience for our customers during the holiday season” will be a little hard to understand for those who’re now experiencing issues with their device.

It’s unusual for a firmware update to be taken down like this – a measure of the seriousness of the situation – and questions are bound to be asked within the company about testing procedures for the software prior to its release early last week