Microsoft has unveiled a new direction for its laptops, centered around enabling cutting-edge artificial intelligence features that require a Neural Processing Unit (NPU). The flagship PCs approved for AI by Microsoft are known as Copilot+ and are currently limited to laptops with Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors.
Efficiency, value, and a new dedicated button on the keyboard are the standout features of Microsoft’s new wave of computing. This effort aims to make AI PCs a tangible and substantial endeavor while giving Windows on Arm its moment in the sun. Microsoft has confirmed that its Copilot AI will run locally on computers, with a focus on laptops equipped with NPUs.
To be considered a Copilot+ PC, the device must have a minimum of 16GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and an integrated NPU capable of 40 TOPS (trillion operations per second). Currently, only laptops with Copilot+ branding will contain NPUs, and there are no plans for desktop processors with NPUs at this time.
The first wave of PC Copilot+ devices will feature Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite chips, offering enhanced performance and capabilities compared to traditional laptops. Microsoft claims that these new laptops are significantly faster than Apple’s latest MacBook Air with an M3 processor.
The initial Copilot+ PCs will be powered by Snapdragon X Elite or X Plus processors, setting them apart from competitors like AMD and Intel. However, Microsoft has hinted at future collaborations with these companies to develop processors that meet the Copilot+ requirements.
Unique features of Copilot+ PCs include local execution of the Copilot AI, live captioning with translation, creative AI tools for image enhancement, and Studio Effects for webcam filters. These devices offer a range of productivity and creative tools that leverage AI technology to improve user experience.
Seven manufacturers, including Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Microsoft, and Samsung, will release Copilot+ PCs at launch. These laptops will range in price from $999 to $2,499, offering high-performance computing and innovative AI features.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s new Copilot+ PCs represent a significant step forward in the integration of AI technology into laptops. By combining powerful NPUs with innovative software features, these devices aim to provide a unique and enhanced user experience for both productivity and creativity.
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https://www.tomshardware.com/software/windows/microsoft-copilot-pcs-all-we-know
