Many rumors about Windows 11 24H2 include upcoming AI features, particularly through Microsoft’s Copilot assistant. Despite the lack of concrete information from Microsoft about its plans for AI in Windows, Intel has revealed some basic requirements for OEMs to build an AI PC.
During an Intel press briefing with The Verge, system requirements were mentioned for a Windows PC to be classified as an “AI PC.” These requirements include a Neural Processing Unit, the latest CPUs and GPUs, access to Copilot, and even a dedicated Copilot key on the keyboard.
Todd Lewellen, head of the PC ecosystem at Intel, explained to The Verge the importance of having an integrated NPU in Intel’s Core Ultra chip for unlocking new AI capabilities. While some systems may not have the physical Copilot key, they do have the integrated NPU required for AI functionality.
Future AI PCs could demand up to 40 TOPS of NPU performance
While current-gen AI PCs have certain basic requirements, Intel mentioned at its AI Summit in Taipei that future AI PCs might need up to 40 TOPS of NPU performance. This advancement could enable key AI capabilities to be run locally, improving latency, performance, and privacy.
Intel’s next-gen product is expected to meet this 40 TOPS requirement, unlike its current offerings. In comparison, AMD’s Ryzen Hawk Point platform offers up to 16 TOPS for its NPU, while Qualcomm’s upcoming Snapdragon X Elite chip is set to support 45 TOPS, exceeding the next-gen AI PC requirement.
Intel is expanding its AI PC acceleration program to support software developers in creating AI-powered features that utilize the full potential of Intel’s AI-powered processor and Microsoft’s Copilot assistant. However, with the promising performance of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite chip, Intel may face stiff competition in the AI PC market.
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