AI PCs will 'become the norm' by 2029 as enterprise and consumer demand surges

"AI PCs are expected to make up a significant portion of the total PC market by the end of 2025, according to new research from Gartner. Analysis from the consultancy shows AI-powered devices will account for 31% of the global market by the end of this year, with total shipments expected to reach over 77 million units. This growth rate is projected to continue well into 2026, Gartner noted, with 143 million units shipped and AI PCs expected to command a 55% share of the overall PC market."

"Notably, a divide is emerging between consumer and enterprise preferences on AI PCs, Gartner found. "Their decision primarily revolves around the choice of AI PC processor platform," the consultancy said. Gartner forecasts that Arm-based laptops, for example, will command a larger share of the consumer market due to application compatibility challenges. In the business segment, however, decision-makers typically prefer x86 on Windows, which is projected to account for 71% of the AI laptop market in enterprise domains this year."

"Challenges are expected, however. Ranjit Atwal, senior director analyst at Gartner, said while AI PCs are "reshaping the market" their adoption has slowed slightly due to tariffs and "pauses in PC buying caused by market uncertainty". "Nevertheless, users will invest in AI PCs to ensure they are prepared for the growing integration of AI at the edge," he added. Software availability and customization is also a key factor in purchasing decisions, prompting vendors to rethink integration and on-device AI investment."

AI-powered PCs are projected to reach about 31% of global PC shipments in 2025, exceeding 77 million units, and to grow to roughly 143 million units and a 55% market share in 2026. Adoption faces near-term headwinds from tariffs and pauses in buying driven by market uncertainty, yet users plan investments to prepare for increased AI at the edge. Consumer preferences are shifting toward Arm-based laptops because of application compatibility, while enterprises predominantly choose x86 Windows, expected to hold about 71% of enterprise AI laptops. Software availability and device-level customization will drive vendor strategies and on-device AI investment.

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