At CES 2025, the tech world witnessed a shift in focus as PC makers showcased a range of business machines alongside their consumer products, all geared towards leveraging the power of generative AI (genAI). Despite the buzz around AI PCs and Copilot+ PCs, analysts suggest that vendors might be a step ahead of the market’s current needs.
Asus, known for its Zenbook and ROG offerings, introduced the ExpertBook B5, ExpertBook B3, ExpertCenter P400 AiO, and ExpertCenter P500 at CES. These devices, while not Copilot+ PCs, qualify as AI PCs with features like Intel vPro for manageability, durability tested to MIL-STD 810H standards, and robust security measures.
Dell revamped its PC portfolio with new Dell Pro models catering to different levels of productivity needs. From essential performance in the Base models to premium features like up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage in the Plus and Premium models, Dell’s offerings cover a wide range of professional requirements.
HP expanded its EliteBook line with Copilot+ PCs designed for various business needs. The lineup includes the EliteBook Ultra G1i, EliteBook X Flip G1i, and EliteBook X G1i, offering sleek designs, ample RAM and storage options, and high-quality displays to enhance user experience and productivity.
Lenovo made a splash at CES with the ThinkPad X9 Aura Editions and the innovative ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable. These devices combine sleek designs with powerful performance, catering to modern business needs while pushing the boundaries of innovation in the laptop space.
Despite the industry’s push towards AI-powered PCs, analysts remain skeptical about the actual demand for such features in enterprise settings. While AI capabilities are touted as the next big thing, businesses prioritize practical features like Autopilot compatibility, encryption, powerful CPUs/GPUs, and repairability over AI gimmicks.
As enterprises navigate their PC purchasing decisions, factors like size, weight, memory, storage, and user feedback play crucial roles in determining the ideal devices for their workforce. Thin and light PCs with AI capabilities are gaining traction, but practicality and user experience remain paramount in the decision-making process.
The future of AI PCs, particularly Copilot+ devices, remains uncertain as analysts debate the relevance and market readiness for such advanced features. While some believe AI PCs are a solution searching for a problem, others see a potential shift in timing for the widespread adoption of on-device AI capabilities.
In conclusion, the landscape of business PCs is evolving, with a focus on AI-ready hardware to meet the demands of a tech-savvy workforce. While the allure of AI features is undeniable, practicality and user-centric design will continue to shape the future of enterprise computing, ensuring that businesses invest in solutions that truly enhance productivity and efficiency in the digital age.