The next generation of AI PCs is here. These laptops boast Microsoft’s Copilot+ along with the latest Snapdragon X Elite processor. Naturally, they also feature tons of AI goodies to help simplify and speed up tasks, assist in both work and play, and make your computing experience more efficient, overall.
Before diving into some of the latest models, it’s important to understand the key terminology surrounding these computers.
What is the Snapdragon X Elite processor?
This processor from Qualcomm is designed for faster and more efficient performance. It can handle demanding workloads and has Dual-Core boost for improved responsiveness along with the Qualcomm Adreno GPU for better graphics and more immersive entertainment experiences. It manages to accomplish these features with low-power consumption as well, which helps extend battery life.
Most notably, however, the Snapdragon X Elite processor is built specifically to run AI features thanks to the Qualcomm AI Engine with integrated Qualcomm Hexagon NPU. It has the capability to run AI Large Language Models (LLMs) with fast and efficient speeds.
The new processor also enables better security with features like the ability to wake the device in sleep mode and protect private data on the computer. It also offers support for Windows Studio Effects and other AI applications and experiences both available now and to come.
What are TOPs?
With many of the latest Copilot+ laptops, you’re likely seeing manufacturers quote a number called TOPS. But what is this and does it matter? TOPS stands for Tera Operations per Second and is the measure of the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) performance in an AI PC. It’s not the only factor to take into consideration, but it’s one spec among all to suggest superior performance, particularly when it comes to AI tasks.
In basic terms, TOPS tells you how many operations, in trillions, a computer system can perform per second. Naturally, the higher the number, the better the performance…relating to this specification, at least. It’s still important to be mindful of all the other usual specs to consider with a laptop to determine its overall performance and ability to meet your needs.
What is Copilot+?
By now, you are probably familiar with Microsoft Copilot. But what is Microsoft Copilot+? These are the latest generation of AI PCs that purport to offer a faster, more intelligent Windows experience through new silicon chips that are capable of 45 TOPS and LLMs.
Bottom line: they are the best performing laptops out there right now to facilitate AI tasks and features. They are designed to be secure as well and deliver all-day battery life.
Copilot+ has some interesting features that can be found in any new Copilot+ computer from any brand. Some of the most notable are as follows.
Recall: This feature makes it easy to search for something on the computer you previously created, opened, or look at from any program, file, folder, even the web, through natural language commands. You might ask, for example, to open the folder with your packing list for vacation even if you can’t remember what you called the file. Or maybe you want to find the website where you were looking at that blue and white pair of running shoes that were on sale. It works by snapping images of your computer’s screen every few seconds. These images are then encrypted and stored within the device to later recall the information you need.
Cocreator: Designed for image creation, Cocreator allows you to guide the creation of an image through voice prompts. The result is an AI-generated image. It’s sort of like the old Paint app, except instead of navigating a menu and using a virtual brush, you’re simply telling the computer what to do. Of course, the images generated are far more professional looking, detailed, and realistic, similar to what you’d get using third-party apps.
Restyle: This tool is for personal photos, allowing you to conveniently edit them and create exciting new images in different styles, like anime, fantasy, and pixel art. Unlike with Photoshop, the feature is built right into Copilot+ PCs so it’s entirely free. And you purportedly don’t experience any lag throughout the process as you would when using third-party apps.
Live Captions and Translations: One of the most exciting features for productivity is Live Captions, which can display captions along the screen with content, and translate more than 40 languages, even when you’re offline. It’s live, too, so while you’re on a Zoom call, for example, you can see translations or captions as the other person is talking and they can do the same. It’s perfect for chatting with clients, colleagues, family members, and friends who are in a different country or speak a different native language.
What Copilot+ PCs Are Coming Soon?
Several top brands have announced their first Copilot+ computers. Here’s a look at some of the most exciting new models.
Asus Vivobook S 15
The Asus Vivobook S 15 comes with a 15-inch 3K 120Hz Asus Lumina OLED screen, Harman Kardon-certified audio, and offers up to 18 hours battery life with support for fast charging and Asus USB-C Easy Charge. Housed in a 14.7mm thin chassis that weighs just 1.42kg, it boasts a 45 TOPS neural engine, 1TB SSD, and up to 32GB RAM. Along with the typical Copilot+ features, there’s also an Asus AiSense IR camera with presence detection that dims the screen when you look away, and Adaptive Lock that locks the laptop when you move away from it then unlocks when you return. It comes with the StoryCube app for managing digital assets, using AI assistance to sort, edit, manage, and export raw files. There’s also a single-zone RGB backlit keyboard that can be personalized using Windows 11 Dynamic Lighting. With multiple USB ports, HDMI 2.1, microSD card reader, and audio combo jack along with Wi-Fi 7, the Asus Vivobook S 15 will be available June 18, 2024 starting at $1,599.
HP OmniBook X And EliteBook Ultra
HP has divided its line-up into two categories: OmniBook is the new naming convention for consumer PCs and EliteBook for professional PCs. The brand has Copilot+ under both naming designations. Both are capable of 45 TOPS, boast 26-hour battery life, and sport the new AI Helix Logo to reflect the AI features inside. The EliteBook Ultra is more durable with an additional layer of protection via a smudge-resistant Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) coating. Both include the new Poly Camera Pro, designed to improve streaming apps and collaboration through multiple cameras. The EliteBook Ultra also adds Wolf Pro Security Next Gen Antivirus (NGAV), which harnesses machine learning to defend against threats. The HP OmniBook X starts at US$1,200 with 1TB storage and the EliteBook Ultra starts at US$1,700.
Acer Swift 14 AI
With all-day battery life and 14.5-inch WQXGA 2,560 x 1,600 IPS display, the Acer Swift 14 AI offers up to 32GB memory and up to a 1TB SSD. You can get an edge-to-edge touchscreen option that includes TÜV Rheinland Eyesafe Certification 2.0 to minimize the effects of blue light. The computer has a 180° hinge so you can enjoy different user modes. The 1,440p QHD IR webcam includes a triple mic array and has a privacy shutter. Along with typical Copilot+ features, you also get Acer’s own suite of AI-boosted conferencing tools, including Acer PurifiedView 2.0 and Acer PurifiedVoice 2.0, which can be calibrated using Acer QuickPanel. There’s also a dedicated key that directs you to the AcerSense app for device management and accessing the various AI features in the Experience Zone. With Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and two each USB-C and USB-A ports, the Acer Swift 14 AI will be available in July starting at US$1,099.
Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge
Samsung’s first Copilot+ PC, the Galaxy Book4 Edge, has all the usual features plus Link to Windows so you can connect a compatible mobile device to the computer to enjoy Galaxy AI on the larger screen. This includes features like Circle to Search with Google, Chat Assist, Live Translate, and more. There are also Windows Studio effects for experimenting with camera filters and background effects on video calls, including voice focus, portrait blur, and eye contact. Running for up to 22 hours per charge with support for super-fast charging, the laptop also boasts Vision Booster, the same feature found in many Samsung Galaxy smartphones, to help improve visibility outdoors. The multi-touch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen is anti-reflective as well to help reduce glare; and boasts an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate. Thin, lightweight, and backed by Samsung Knox security, it comes in both the Edge and Edge Pro variations starting June 18, 2024 for $1,850. The laptops come with either 14-inch or 16-inch screens.
Microsoft Copilot+ PCs Will Become the Norm
These are just a few of the first Microsoft Copilot+ PCs to come to market, but we can expect to see many more over the coming year and beyond. Microsoft laptops with Copilot+ will become the norm, not the exception.
The great thing about AI features in laptops is that they work equally well for tech-savvy professionals and average users who aren’t familiar with the latest technologies. Part and parcel with AI is the ability to guide you along with tasks and the ability use natural language to get assistance. So, when you aren’t sure how to do something, just ask the AI and it will help.
Thus, the irony is that the most tech-savvy computers around will now also appeal to the least tech-savvy users. It’s worth visiting a local shop and trying out the features for yourself.
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