Bill Gates, the American tech pioneer and former Microsoft founder, recently shared a personal tech update during a Q&A session with users. He revealed that his everyday carry has shifted from one flagship phone to another, highlighting a transition to a Samsung Fold 4. The model change came as a direct gift from a high-ranking executive at Samsung during a meeting held in South Korea. Gates explained that this gift was part of a refresh, replacing his previous foldable model. The exchange underscores Gates’ ongoing interest in how premium mobile devices fit into a busy, software-focused workflow. Attribution: Gates’ public remarks during a user Q&A
In terms of software, Gates stated that he uses Microsoft Outlook and a suite of Microsoft applications as central tools on his devices. He emphasized that his choice of hardware remains tightly aligned with his company’s ecosystem, noting that he relies on smartphones and laptops produced by Microsoft rather than tablet devices. This reinforces a practical stance: tools should streamline productivity and support the kinds of tasks Gates handles daily, like email management, calendar coordination, and document work. Attribution: Gates’ statement about software and hardware alignment
When asked about future hardware directions for Microsoft, Gates did not offer a direct answer about shifting away from two-screen formats toward larger single displays. Nevertheless, he acknowledged parallels with a contemporary Microsoft concept: a smartphone that folds in a manner similar to the Samsung Fold line. This comparison hints at ongoing industry-wide exploration of form factors that balance compact portability with expansive screen space for multitasking and productivity. Attribution: Gates’ remarks on form factor discussions
Looking back to mid-2022, Gates described his personal computer setup in conversations with technology press. He highlighted a preference for Microsoft’s all-in-one systems for home use, specifically mentioning the Surface Studio 2 for tasks that benefit from a large, integrated display. For travel and on-the-go work, he relied on the Surface Laptop 4. These choices illustrate a consistent pattern: the software environment is central, and the hardware is chosen to complement that environment, enabling a smooth transition between home, travel, and meetings. Attribution: 2022 interview notes on home and travel computing
Across these disclosures, Gates’ approach reflects a practical philosophy: select devices that integrate with a trusted software stack, support productive routines, and adapt to evolving work rhythms. Whether evaluating a premium foldable phone or an all-in-one desktop, the emphasis remains on reliability, ease of use, and seamless collaboration with colleagues and partners. The story also highlights how influential tech leaders view collaboration between hardware and software as a key driver of efficiency, especially for someone who oversees a global technology company and engages with a broad audience of users daily. Attribution: synthesis of Gates’ hardware and software preferences