At a special event on Microsoft’s new campus, the company unveiled a new category of Windows PCs designed for AI: Copilot+ PCs.
These PCs are touted as the fastest and most intelligent Windows PCs ever built, featuring advanced silicon capable of over 40 TOPS (trillion operations per second), extended battery life, and access to cutting-edge AI models. Key features include Recall for efficient data retrieval, Cocreator for real-time AI image generation and editing, and Live Captions for translating audio from over 40 languages into English.
The devices, available from Microsoft Surface and OEM partners like Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung, can be pre-ordered today with availability starting June 18. Prices start at USD $999.
Source: Microsoft
Over the past year, Microsoft has seen rapid AI innovation in the cloud with Copilot. Now, they are extending this innovation to the device level, reimagining the PC with AI at its core. This marks the most significant change to the Windows platform in decades.
Enhanced System Architecture
Microsoft has introduced a new system architecture integrating the CPU, GPU, and a high-performance Neural Processing Unit (NPU). This architecture, combined with Microsoft’s Azure Cloud and small language models, delivers unprecedented performance and efficiency for AI workloads. Copilot+ PCs outperform Apple’s MacBook Air 15” by up to 58% in sustained multi-threaded performance and offer up to 22 hours of local video playback or 15 hours of web browsing on a single charge.
Windows on the Fastest Chip
Microsoft now offers more native Arm64 experiences than ever before, including optimised versions of Microsoft 365 apps and other popular applications like Chrome, Spotify, and Adobe Photoshop. The new Prism emulator ensures great performance for both native and emulated apps.
Security and Privacy
Copilot+ PCs come with the Microsoft Pluton Security processor enabled by default, along with new features and updates in Windows 11 to enhance security. Users have control over their data with personalised privacy settings.
Recall Feature
Recall allows users to find previously viewed or accessed content on their PC easily, organising information based on personal associations. This feature helps users retrieve information quickly and intuitively.
Cocreator for Image Creation
Using the NPU and local small language models, Copilot+ PCs bring new experiences to creative applications like Paint and Photos. Cocreator enables real-time image generation and editing using text prompts and ink strokes. Users can also reimagine personal photos with new styles using Restyle Image.
Live Captions and Enhanced Communication
Live Captions now support live translations, converting audio from over 40 languages into English captions in real-time. This feature is powered by the NPU and available across all Copilot+ PCs.
Windows Studio Effects
New and enhanced Windows Studio Effects help users look and sound their best with features like portrait light, creative filters, eye contact teleprompter, and improvements to voice focus and portrait blur.
Source: Microsoft
Every Copilot+ PC includes a dedicated Copilot key on the keyboard, providing access to advanced AI models for natural voice conversations and other powerful functionalities.
Availability and Pricing of the new PCs.
New Copilot+ PCs from Microsoft Surface and OEM partners will be available from 18 June 2023, starting at USD $999. Microsoft has collaborated with top OEMs to bring these innovative devices to market, offering substantial value at competitive prices.
