Microsoft has introduced its new Copilot+ PC initiative at the Build developer conference, requiring specific hardware specifications for eligible systems. These PCs will be able to handle AI-accelerated workloads locally, without relying on the cloud. The minimum requirements include 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, as well as an integrated neural processing unit (NPU) with a performance of 40 trillion operations per second (TOPS).
Currently, only Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chips meet the NPU requirement, while Intel and AMD’s current-generation chips fall short. Both companies have upcoming products that will meet Microsoft’s standards, but no existing x86-based Windows PCs qualify for Copilot+ designation.
The NPUs in Copilot+ PCs will power features like “Recall,” which tracks user activity on the device for suggestions and tasks. Microsoft emphasizes that all processing will be done locally on the device to ensure privacy and security. While CPUs and GPUs can contribute to overall performance, NPUs are specialized for AI workloads and are more efficient in handling such tasks.
Microsoft positions Copilot+ PCs as premium devices above older Windows PCs and systems with lower-performance NPUs. Cloud-powered AI features and existing NPU-accelerated workloads will continue to function on existing systems. However, linking the Copilot+ brand to Arm-based Windows devices introduces compatibility challenges and limitations compared to Intel and AMD PCs.
The initiative could mark a new phase in PC development, but there are uncertainties regarding its long-term impact. Copilot+ PCs may revolutionize the industry or fade away like Windows RT, depending on adoption and compatibility issues.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC initiative sets higher hardware standards for AI-accelerated workloads, requiring specialized NPUs for optimal performance. While Intel and AMD have products in development to meet these requirements, existing x86-based PCs fall short. The initiative could reshape PC development, but compatibility issues with Arm-based Windows devices may hinder its success. Ultimately, the future of Copilot+ PCs remains uncertain in the ever-evolving PC market.
Article Source
https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2024/05/microsofts-copilot-ai-pc-requirements-are-embarrassing-for-intel-and-amd/
