Microsoft - Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock
Role: Industrial Design Lead
Designed by Microsoft ID Team
Launched Spring 2023
About
Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock is a USB4/Thunderbolt 4 dock that helps maximize workspace, delivers ultra-high speed data transfer and the versatility to connect and charge your most important peripherals. This new accessory also carries forward Microsoft’s continuous commitment to security, sustainability and accessibility.
To help people of all abilities identify ports with ease, the new dock includes not only front-facing ports, but also versatile rear-facing ports with raised tactile indicators for users with low vision and without vision to more easily identify ports.
Sustainability
The dock and the power supply unit enclosures are attributed to 20% ocean-bound plastic and lighter materials overall than Microsoft’s previous docks. The packaging is ~99% recyclable and free of single-use plastics.
DESK MOUNT
To enable single-handed docking and maintain an uncluttered workspace, I explored a desk mount solution originally featuring an intuitive magnetic ball mount. However, the final securing mechanism was transitioned to a standard 1/4" camera screw for simplicity and compatibility with off-the-shelf mounts.
