Microsoft's Copilot+ PC hype needs to end, analysts say

"Microsoft should drop the Copilot+ moniker for AI PCs, as it has sown confusion among buyers and failed to deliver on over-hyped promises, according to analysts. Copilot+ Windows 11 PCs were first introduced in 2024. The PCs can run AI applications on device without an Internet connection and include unique AI hardware such as neural processing units (NPUs). But Copilot+ has created nothing but headaches and confusion among consumers, enterprises, and programmers, said Jim McGregor, principal analyst at Tirias Research."

"The industry didn't ask for jazzed-up AI PCs, as many of today's Windows computers can already handle some level of AI - and more complex tasks could be done in the cloud, McGregor said. The Copilot+ and AI PC concept put arbitrary technical barriers to AI, which also baffled buyers, McGregor said. (Microsoft requires PC makers to meet minimum AI performance standards from AI chips not typically found in regular PCs.)"

"At last month's Ignite conference, Microsoft highlighted its Windows 365 cloud PC concept - with new features such as AI agents - more than it talked up AI PCs. Smaller Copilot+ PCs announcements were largely lost in all the conference noise, though a few small AI features exclusive to Copilot+ PCs were unveiled, including Fluid dictation, the ability to convert a table to Excel with Click to Do, and offline support for writing assistance."

Copilot+ Windows 11 PCs launched in 2024 with on-device AI capabilities and specialized AI hardware such as neural processing units (NPUs). The branding requires PC makers to meet minimum AI performance standards tied to chips not found in many regular PCs. The Copilot+ label and hardware requirements have created confusion and limited practical applications, leaving buyers and enterprises disappointed. Many existing Windows PCs can already handle basic AI and more advanced tasks can run in the cloud, reducing demand for specialized AI PCs. Microsoft emphasized Windows 365 cloud PC features at Ignite while only adding a few Copilot+-exclusive features like Fluid dictation, Click to Do, and offline writing assistance.

Read at Computerworld