AI-powered PCs are a new generation of laptops and desktops that include built-in NPUs (Neural Processing Units) to handle artificial intelligence tasks directly on the device, rather than relying on cloud-based services.
An NPU is a specialized chip designed to efficiently run AI and machine learning workloads such as:
- Real-time speech transcription and translation
- Intelligent noise cancellation
- AI-enhanced camera features (e.g. background blur, eye contact)
- Predictive battery and thermal management
- Local AI assistants like Windows Copilot
The NPU acts as a third processor in addition to the CPU and GPU, enabling faster and more efficient AI operations.
Why NPUs Matter
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| On-device AI processing | No need for cloud, making it faster and more private |
| Lower power consumption | NPUs use far less energy than CPUs or GPUs for AI tasks |
| Enhanced privacy | Sensitive data doesn’t leave the device |
| Improved performance | Frees up CPU/GPU to handle other workloads |
| New user features | Enables AI functions like real-time translation, Recall, and live captions |
Real-World Use Cases in 2025
Microsoft Copilot+ PCs
Microsoft introduced “Copilot+ PC” in 2024 as a new standard for AI-enabled Windows laptops. These devices must have:
- A minimum of 40 TOPS (trillions of operations per second) AI performance from the NPU
- AI features like Recall, Cocreator, AI Studio, and real-time captions
- Instant search across device history using natural language
Webcam and Audio Enhancements
On-device NPUs power camera features such as:
- Auto framing and eye correction
- Real-time background blur
- Voice isolation and noise suppression during video calls
Smart Power Management
NPUs help optimize:
- Battery life by predicting usage patterns
- Thermal behavior by intelligently adjusting fan speed and CPU load
Example Devices with NPUs
| Device | Processor | NPU Performance | Copilot+ Certified |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surface Laptop 7 | Snapdragon X Elite | 45+ TOPS | Yes |
| ASUS Vivobook S 15 (2024) | Snapdragon X Elite | 45 TOPS | Yes |
| HP OmniBook X | Snapdragon X Plus | 45 TOPS | Yes |
| Acer Swift 14 AI | Snapdragon X | 45 TOPS | Yes |
| Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x (2024) | AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series | 50+ TOPS | Yes |
Apple’s M3 and M4 chips also include a Neural Engine for similar AI acceleration, but Apple does not use the Copilot+ label.
What is a TOP?
- TOPS stands for Trillions of Operations Per Second
- It measures how fast an NPU can handle AI workloads
- For reference: Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite can process up to 45 TOPS, while older Intel Core Ultra chips may only manage around 10–11 TOPS
Higher TOPS = more capable of running advanced AI features locally
Supported AI Software and Tools
NPUs are supported by a growing range of AI-optimized software, including:
- Microsoft Copilot and Recall (Windows 11)
- Adobe Creative Suite with local AI effects
- DaVinci Resolve Studio for AI-powered editing
- APIs like ONNX, DirectML, and Windows ML for developers
Developers can directly target the NPU using Qualcomm, Intel, or AMD SDKs.
Privacy and Security Advantages
Since NPUs process data locally:
- Transcriptions, summaries, and assistant responses can happen without internet
- Your data stays private and secure, ideal for sensitive professions like law, healthcare, and government
Challenges and Limitations
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Software ecosystem still growing | Many apps don’t fully use NPUs yet |
| Cost | Laptops with powerful NPUs usually start around $999+ |
| Battery benefits vary | Not all vendors optimize NPU performance equally |
| Awareness | Many users don’t know if they need or are using NPUs |
Summary
AI-powered PCs with NPUs represent a shift toward faster, smarter, and more private computing. Key benefits include:
- Real-time AI features without relying on the cloud
- Longer battery life
- Stronger privacy and offline capabilities
These PCs are especially useful for:
- Professionals using AI-enhanced productivity tools.
- Remote workers who rely on high-quality video and audio.
- Anyone who wants fast, responsive AI tools that don’t require an internet connection.