The upcoming frontier for Windows isn’t Windows 12, but rather Copilot Plus PCs, also known as Copilot+ PCs. These innovative systems are equipped with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) boasting an impressive 40 TOPs (trillion operations per second). Just as a CPU handles general task processing and a GPU manages graphics, Copilot Plus PCs feature an additional NPU chip dedicated to processing AI features locally. This integration promises to usher in a new era of computing, leveraging the power of AI for enhanced performance and functionality.
What are Copilot+ PCs?
TL;DR: Copilot+ PCs, developed in collaboration with Microsoft, are NPU-based devices designed to provide local AI processing capabilities. These PCs offer native support for various AI features, including Windows 11 Recall AI, AI upscaling, Studio Effects, Live Captions, on-device AI image generation, and more. The tentative release date for Copilot+ PCs is June 18.
While AI features like ChatGPT, Copilot, or Gemini can be accessed on all devices with internet connectivity, these services typically process data in the cloud. For instance, when using Copilot web or ChatGPT, your data is transmitted to Microsoft and OpenAI servers, respectively.
In contrast, Copilot+ PCs perform AI processing locally using the NPU, ensuring that your data remains on the device and is not sent to external servers. This approach frees up CPU and GPU resources for other tasks.
Copilot+ PCs introduce exclusive AI features within native applications like Paint and Photos. These include a Recall feature to assist in recalling past actions, Windows Studio Effects for webcam enhancement, Copilot integration, and additional functionalities. These native AI capabilities further enhance the user experience by leveraging the power of on-device AI processing provided by the NPU.
Requirements of Copilot+ PCs
Copilot+ PCs boast a minimum hardware configuration comprising 256GB storage, 16GB RAM, and a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) with a performance threshold of 40+ trillion operations per second (TOPs). This hardware specification is also a prerequisite for accessing Windows 11 Recall, a flagship feature of AI PCs.
However, not all processors featuring an NPU meet the criteria for classification as a Copilot+ PC. Microsoft officials have explicitly stated to Windows Latest that Copilot+ PCs must be equipped with an NPU capable of exceeding 40 TOPs.
Currently, Intel and AMD do not offer processors meeting this requirement. Conversely, Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chips provide NPUs capable of delivering up to 45 TOPs, making them eligible for Copilot+ PC designation.
While Copilot Plus features are presently limited to Snapdragon X chips, they are not exclusive. Microsoft has indicated to Windows Latest that Intel, AMD, and other chip manufacturers may join the category if they meet the minimum requirements.
Microsoft’s own Surface Pro and Surface Laptop have transitioned from Intel processors to Snapdragon X Plus and Elite chips, underscoring the company’s commitment to the Copilot+ PC ecosystem.
It’s important to highlight that Copilot+ PCs are not designed for everyone. Microsoft’s focus with Copilot Plus PCs does not revolve around catering to gamers or gaming enthusiasts. These PCs are equipped with an onboard GPU rather than a discrete GPU from NVIDIA or AMD. As a result, their performance capabilities are limited, particularly in the realm of gaming.
Features exclusive to Windows 11 Copilot+ PCs
Copilot Plus PCs are also unique due to their exclusive “AI” features, such as Recall and Windows Studio.
Here’s a list of all the new features:
1. Recall in Windows 11
Recall is an AI-based feature that makes every past action on your PC searchable. To achieve this, Recall will create snapshots and record your screen from the moment you turn it on.
Following setup, users can prompt Recall to find information using straightforward text prompts. Recall will then analyze the stored snapshots and deliver the most relevant and accurate responses.
This functionality enables users to locate specific files amidst a cluttered downloads folder, revisit past conversations with individuals, and perform various other memory-related tasks. In instances where users struggle to recall the search term, they can utilize the Recall timeline feature to navigate through past snapshots and retrieve the forgotten information.
Microsoft has officially verified that all processing and storage of snapshots occur exclusively on the PC itself. This means that users’ data remains securely stored on their device and will not be covertly utilized for training AI models or any other purposes.
Furthermore, Microsoft has provided an extensive overview outlining the security and privacy measures implemented for Windows 11 Recall AI, ensuring transparency and reinforcing users’ trust in the platform.
- Recall is automatically enabled by default on Copilot+ PCs once the feature is activated. However, users have the option to opt-out during the setup process of a new Copilot+ PC if they choose to do so. This flexibility allows users to tailor their preferences and privacy settings according to their individual preferences and requirements.
- As depicted in the provided screenshot, the Settings app now features a dedicated section titled “Recall & snapshots” to facilitate management of the Recall feature.
- Within this section, users have comprehensive control over the data encompassed in Snapshots, offering the ability to easily exclude specific apps or websites as desired. Furthermore, users can exercise the option to pause or entirely disable Recall, in addition to deleting any captured snapshots.
- Users also have the capability to define the maximum size of snapshots for Recall, ensuring efficient management of storage resources. It’s noteworthy that all snapshots are safeguarded through Device Encryption, bolstering data security measures.
- Importantly, snapshots are stored solely on the user’s disk drives and are never transmitted to the cloud, thereby ensuring confidentiality and privacy. Microsoft reaffirms that it cannot access these snapshots.
- Additionally, on Copilot+ PCs, robust security measures are incorporated, including a Microsoft Pluton security chip and Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security (ESS). This enables users to log in using advanced authentication methods such as fingerprint or face scan, or a PIN, instead of relying solely on passwords. This multifaceted security framework enhances the overall security posture of Copilot+ PCs, safeguarding user data and privacy.
2. Windows Studio Effects
The second new feature of Copilot Plus PCs is improved Windows Studio Effects.
Windows Studio Effects empowers users to enhance their video output by eliminating distractions present in the background.
This functionality effectively removes background noise while simultaneously applying artistic filters to refine the visual aesthetic of the video. To utilize this feature on Copilot+ PCs, users can effortlessly access Studio Effects by clicking on the designated button located in the system tray. This streamlined process ensures convenient accessibility and enables users to swiftly enhance their video content with professional-grade effects.
3. Automatic Super Resolution
Microsoft has introduced a cutting-edge NPU-powered Automatic Super Resolution feature to Copilot Plus PCs.
Through our assessments, Windows Latest has observed that Auto Super Resolution serves as an AI-upscaling capability designed to elevate the visual quality and performance of games on Windows 11.
This innovative feature harnesses the potent capabilities of the NPU to provide Copilot Plus PCs with a significant performance enhancement, particularly in demanding gaming scenarios. By leveraging the power of AI, Auto Super Resolution delivers a substantial boost, ensuring a more immersive and enjoyable gaming experience for users.
As depicted in the provided screenshot and corroborated by Windows Latest, users can navigate to the Graphics settings to configure upscaling for specific applications, including the camera. However, it’s important to note that this feature is officially tailored for gaming purposes.
While users have the flexibility to adjust upscaling settings for various applications, the Automatic Super Resolution feature is primarily optimized and intended for enhancing the visual performance of games. This ensures that gamers can enjoy an elevated gaming experience with enhanced graphics quality and smoother gameplay.
4. Live Captions
Windows 11 already has live captions, but the experience is much better on Copilot+ PCs.
The AI-powered translation capability embedded within Copilot+ PCs enables real-time translation of both live audio and locally stored audio files into English, all without the need for an internet connection. This feature boasts support for a wide array of languages, encompassing a total of 40 different languages.
As indicated in the provided screenshot, Microsoft has explicitly assured users that their data will not be uploaded to the cloud. This commitment to data privacy and security ensures that users can confidently utilize the translation functionality without concerns regarding data exposure or unauthorized access.
5. Restyle Images in Microsoft Photos
With the Restyle Image feature integrated into the Photos app, users can effortlessly transform ordinary images into stunning masterpieces of artwork, all without relying on external Copilot-web GPTs.
This intuitive feature allows users to guide the program in adjusting the image after specifying a particular style, thereby enabling precise control over the artistic transformation process. By leveraging this functionality, users can unleash their creativity and enhance their images with captivating visual effects, enhancing their overall aesthetic appeal.
The Photos app further enhances user creativity with its selection of pre-defined styles, enabling users to manipulate both the background and foreground of their images with ease. Additionally, users have the flexibility to adjust the AI’s creativity levels if they feel it is overly exuberant, allowing for fine-tuning of the image editing process.
An essential benefit of utilizing this feature is that all image processing occurs natively on the PC, resulting in significantly faster processing times compared to generating images from the web. This local processing capability ensures a seamless and efficient editing experience, empowering users to achieve their desired artistic vision with minimal delay.
6. Cocreator in Paint
Cocreator leverages text prompts and interprets digital pen input to generate images. Utilizing five SLM (small language model) models operating locally on the device, Cocreator transforms textual prompts and vague scribbling into coherent and meaningful images.
Users have the flexibility to fine-tune the creative output by adjusting the creativity levels or selecting a preferred style for the image. This customization capability enables users to tailor the generated images according to their artistic preferences, resulting in a more personalized and engaging creative process.
7. Improved Copilot
The redesigned Copilot app seamlessly integrates with other open apps and games, offering users the flexibility to multitask effectively. With its revamped interface resembling the ChatGPT website, the Copilot app delivers a familiar and intuitive user experience.
This redesigned interface enhances usability and accessibility, ensuring a seamless transition between different tasks and activities. Users can leverage the Copilot app alongside other applications and games without interruption, facilitating efficient productivity and enhanced user engagement.
Once you initiate screen sharing, the Copilot app seamlessly transitions into a supportive companion, ready to assist you through any challenges you may encounter. Copilot suggestions will be readily available in the Settings app and other system applications, providing helpful guidance and solutions as needed.
This integration of Copilot suggestions across various system apps enhances the overall user experience, empowering users to troubleshoot issues effectively and navigate through tasks with confidence. Whether you’re adjusting settings or exploring system functionalities, Copilot is there to offer insightful suggestions and assistance every step of the way.
The release of GPT-4o marks a significant advancement in AI capabilities, poised to enhance Copilot’s performance and deliver even more accurate results and recommendations to users.
Moreover, Microsoft has forged partnerships with renowned app brands, leveraging their NPU power to integrate seamlessly with Copilot. Collaborations with industry leaders such as Adobe, CapCut, LiquidText, and others will further enrich the Copilot experience, offering users access to enhanced features and functionalities across a wide range of applications.
Copilot Plus PCs FAQ: All your questions answered
1. What is the difference between a Windows PC and a Copilot+ PC?
Copilot+ PCs are specifically engineered to leverage the capabilities of NPU technology, aiming to deliver optimal performance and AI-powered experiences directly within the Windows 11 environment. With predefined hardware requirements, these Copilot+ PCs are designed to accommodate advanced AI features, offering users exclusive access to a range of enhanced functionalities.
As of now, standard Windows 11 PCs may not possess the necessary computational power to support the advanced AI features introduced by Microsoft. However, advancements in chip technology from Intel and AMD could potentially change this landscape in the future. If these chip manufacturers develop processors equipped with NPUs capable of delivering 40 TOPS or greater processing power, it could open up the possibility for broader adoption of AI experiences on standard Windows 11 PCs.
For desktop users who custom-build their PCs, the feasibility of accessing these new AI experiences largely depends on the availability of compatible hardware components. While Copilot+ PC features are currently exclusive to designated hardware configurations, future developments in chip technology may eventually extend these capabilities to a wider range of desktop setups, offering users greater flexibility and access to AI-driven enhancements.
2. Are Copilot+ PCs and Copilot different?
Copilot+ represents a novel category of PCs that integrate AI models and NPUs, enabling localized processing for enhanced efficiency and speed. Unlike traditional setups, Copilot+ PCs do not require a subscription to function and boast significantly faster performance.
On the other hand, Copilot operates as an AI assistant accessible via both web and Windows platforms. When users submit requests, Copilot processes them on external servers before returning the results. While Copilot offers versatility, it may exhibit slower response times, especially for complex inquiries and image generation tasks, due to the reliance on external processing.
Copilot+ differs from Copilot in several key aspects.
Firstly, Copilot+ is not a service but rather a distinct category of PCs, offering enhanced AI capabilities and localized processing without the need for a subscription. It operates independently of internet connectivity and does not impose any restrictions on the number of requests it can handle per day.
Conversely, Copilot operates as a free service accessible via the web, although it offers an optional paid tier called Copilot Pro. Users need internet access to utilize Copilot, and the service imposes limitations on the number of requests or prompts users can make within a given timeframe.
3. Will all apps work on Copilot+ ARM-based PCs?
Yes, you can run all apps on Copilot+ PCs. Microsoft has confirmed that all popular apps will work natively on ARM PCs.
This includes Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Opera, Slack, Teams, Office, and Adobe.
ARM versions of popular applications are increasingly becoming available on the Microsoft Store, and many app brands are also releasing ARM-compatible versions of their software both on the Store and their websites.
However, in cases where an ARM version of an app is not available, Copilot+ PCs offer a solution through Prism, an emulation engine. Prism enables these PCs to run applications designed for Intel processors efficiently. Notably, Prism’s emulation technology outperforms Apple’s equivalent, offering users a seamless experience when running apps originally intended for Intel-based PCs.
4. Are Copilot+ PCs better than the MacBook Air M3?
Currently announced Copilot+ PCs pack some serious hardware and are faster than Apple’s current lineup of MacBook.
Microsoft has openly asserted that Copilot+ PCs offer superior performance and extended battery life compared to competitors. According to their claims, these PCs outperform Apple’s MacBook Air 15″ by up to 58% in sustained multithreaded performance. Additionally, they boast a 20% longer battery life, further enhancing their appeal to users seeking high-performance computing solutions with extended battery longevity.
Copilot Plus PCs vs Apple M3 benchmark comparison:
Chip | Single-core | Multi-core |
---|---|---|
Apple M1 | 2334 | 8316 |
Apple M2 | 2589 | 9742 |
Apple M3 | 3047 | 11977 |
Snapdragon X Elite | 2880 | 15211 |
The X Elite chips are faster than the previous generations of Apple M, which shouldn’t be surprising given that Qualcomm’s new processor has more cores.
5. Can you upgrade your existing Windows 11 PC to a Copilot+ PC?
No, the Copilot+ PC category is exclusive to new-generation PCs due to hardware limitations. However, you can still utilize the Copilot app, a free AI assistant, on your existing Windows 11 PC. It’s important to note that your current PC won’t have access to exclusive features such as Recall and Studio Effects, which are reserved for Copilot+ PCs.
6. Where can you buy a Copilot+ PC, and how much does it cost?
Copilot+ PCs are set to make their debut in June 2024, with most models expected to hit the market on June 18. Leading PC manufacturers including Microsoft, HP, Dell, ASUS, Acer, and Lenovo will unveil their Snapdragon-powered PCs on this date in the US, UK, and other regions.
Starting at a base price of $999, Copilot+ PCs offer competitive pricing, with Microsoft asserting that this is $200 lower than similar-spec devices in the market.
Should you upgrade to Copilot+ PCs?
Deciding whether to upgrade to a Copilot+ PC ultimately comes down to personal preference and your specific needs. If you value features like Recall AI, on-device image and text processing with generative AI, and enhanced performance and battery life compared to existing hardware, then upgrading to a Copilot+ PC may be worth considering.
The AI-driven capabilities of Copilot+ PCs offer potential benefits for productivity, as AI can handle various tasks efficiently. However, if these AI experiences are not essential to your work or personal life, and you are satisfied with the performance of your current Windows 11 PC, then sticking with your existing device may be perfectly fine.