Your Guide to Surface at Microsoft Build 2025

Surface is back at Microsoft Build 2025—and more powerful than ever. Whether you’re building apps with on-device AI, exploring what Copilot+ PCs can do for your org, or looking for hands-on ways to elevate Windows deployment—this year’s event is packed with innovation, insight, and impact. From deep technical sessions and expert-led labs to immersive demos in the Expo Hall, Surface is helping IT pros and developers bring their ideas to life across Windows, Azure, and Copilot. 

Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of the week—whether you're in Seattle or joining virtually. 

Start Strong: Keynotes and Backstage Access  

Before diving into sessions, hands-on learning, or the Expo, make time for the keynotes and behind-the-scenes videos that will set the stage for all the news landing at this year’s Build:  

Keynotes & General Sessions - In-Person + Online  

• Microsoft Build Opening Keynote | Monday, May 19 | 9:05–11:00 AM PT 
  Satya Nadella and Microsoft leaders explore new opportunities in the era of AI—across platforms, devices, and the cloud. 
• Unpacking the Tech | Tuesday, May 20 | 9:00–11:00 AM PT 
  Deep dive into the latest announcements with Azure, Copilot, GitHub, Windows AI, and how developers drive enterprise AI transformation. 

• Scott and Mark Learn to…LIVE | Thursday, May 22 | 11:30 AM–12:30 PM PT 
  Scott Hanselman and Mark Russinovich push Copilot+ PCs, local models, and visual tools to the limit in a live, unfiltered demo-fest. 

BTS Sneak Peaks - Online Only 

Interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and practical breakdowns from Microsoft engineers and partners that you won’t want to miss.  

• Backstage @Build – Day 1  | Monday, May 19 | 11:00 AM–1:00 PM PT 

• Backstage @Build – Day 2 | Tuesday, May 20 | 11:00 AM–1:00 PM PT 
   

Check Out Surface-Relevant Sessions 

These breakouts go deeper into device-cloud AI integration, Copilot Studio agents, and Windows developer workflows that Surface Copilot+ PCs are designed to power: 

• BRK162: Copilot Studio Agents & Azure AI Foundry 
  Tuesday, May 20 | 1:30–2:30 PM PT 
  Learn how to build and deploy intelligent agents using Copilot Studio with Azure vector search, RAG, and 1800+ pre-trained models. 

• BRKFP250: Enable Seamless Deployment Across Intel Copilot+ PCs and Azure 
  Tuesday, May 20 | 3:00–4:00 PM PT 
  Explore how Intel’s hardware stack—from NPU to Xeon—unlocks AI performance across devices and the Azure cloud. 

• BRK222: Windows AI Developer Workstations: Optimized for AI 
  Wednesday, May 21 | 9:00–10:00 AM PT 
  Understand how Windows AI workloads are optimized on Copilot+ devices like Surface. 

Hands-on Labs to Explore 

Surface is at the center of the Copilot+ PC revolution, with deep integration into local model development, Windows AI, and deployment strategies. Check out the latest labs from Windows experienced on Copilot + PCs from Surface.  

Hands-On Labs - In-Person Only 

• LAB371 | Tues, May 20 11:45 AM – 1:00 PM PT | Infuse a Windows App with Local AI Features 
• LAB371-R1: Repeat Lab | Wed, May 21 1:00 PM – 2:15 PM PT 

PRO TIP: All labs are in-person only and will not be recorded. RSVP in advance and arrive early; standby spaces open 5 minutes before start time. 

Explore Surface Hands-On Learning in the Hub 

Expert Meetup - In-Person Only 

If you’re joining us onsite in Seattle, be sure to stop by the Expert Meetup space inside the Hub for Surface Hands-On Learning: 

• 15-minute follow-along AI demos using Copilot+ PCs 
• Learn features like Recall, Click-to-do, enhanced Windows Search, and on-device model integration 
• No sign-up required—just show up and plug in (headphones provided!) 

These sessions are not listed in the session manager, so plan time to explore the Hub and discover them organically. Topics include:  

• Copilot Studio Agent Builder 

• AI Developer Gallery, Copilot+ Feature Demos 

• Building Locally with Copilot+ AI PCs 

• Windows App Development + Local AI.  

Let’s Build What’s Next—Together 

Surface Copilot+ PCs are built for this AI-first world. Whether you're deploying to thousands or building for one, Surface helps you move faster, stay secure, and deliver value.