When will AI-enabled PCs make up over half of PC shipments?

AI-enabled PCs are predicted to account for more than half of all global PC shipments in 2026.

Why are consumers currently buying AI PCs?

Consumers are currently purchasing AI PCs for their high performance and long battery life, not primarily for AI-related functions.

What makes a PC an 'AI PC'?

An AI PC is defined by the presence of dedicated AI silicon, which enables it to perform basic AI tasks locally without solely relying on cloud processing.

Home / Technology / Beyond AI: Buyers Snag AI PCs for Speed, Battery

Beyond AI: Buyers Snag AI PCs for Speed, Battery

21 Feb

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Summary

AI PCs will represent over half of global PC shipments in 2026.
Users currently buy AI PCs for performance and battery life, not AI.
Dedicated AI silicon enhances system efficiency and responsiveness.

Beyond AI: Buyers Snag AI PCs for Speed, Battery

Intel predicts a significant shift in the personal computing market, expecting AI-enabled PCs to surpass 50% of total shipments in 2026. Approximately 130 million of the projected 260 million global PC shipments will incorporate dedicated AI processing hardware, such as NPUs.

Currently, these AI PCs are often viewed as premium devices, with high-end business laptops leading adoption. However, Intel's Japan president, Makoto Ohno, highlighted that consumers are primarily purchasing these machines for enhanced performance and extended battery life, rather than for specific AI functions. This indicates that while the integrated AI silicon improves overall system efficiency and responsiveness, compelling AI-specific applications are still developing.

Intel acknowledges the need for broader software support to unlock the full potential of AI PCs for everyday users. The company's vision is for consumers to eventually purchase these devices for distinct AI-enabled purposes, making AI capability a standard feature rather than an exceptional upgrade.

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