A new generation of personal computers specifically designed to run artificial intelligence (AI) programmes became available in stores on Tuesday, marking a significant push by tech companies towards mainstream adoption of AI technologies akin to ChatGPT.
Last month, Microsoft introduced its new line of AI-powered personal computers, branded as “AI PCs,” under the Copilot Plus series. These innovative devices aim to integrate AI capabilities directly into user hardware, eliminating the need for cloud-based operations. This shift promises to enhance energy efficiency, speed, and overall user experience by avoiding the delays and clunkiness associated with cloud dependency.
Central to the AI PCs is a neural processing unit (NPU) chip, which facilitates advanced features such as crisper photo editing, real-time transcription and translation, and a “Recall” function. This latter feature is designed to keep track of all activities on the device, although Microsoft has temporarily withheld it due to privacy concerns, opting to release it as a test feature in the future.
Currently, the AI PCs are powered by Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon X Elite and Plus processors, and are being manufactured by major hardware companies such as HP and ASUS. At a tech conference in Toronto, Qualcomm’s Senior Vice President Durga Malladi highlighted the transformative potential of these devices, stating, “We are redefining what a laptop actually does for the end user. We believe this is the rebirth of the PC.”
During the launch event in May, Microsoft projected that over 50 million AI PCs would be sold within the next year, driven by the high demand for AI functionalities exemplified by ChatGPT.
As these AI PCs hit the market, consumers can look forward to a new era of computing, where powerful AI capabilities are seamlessly integrated into everyday devices, promising enhanced productivity and user experience.