AI PCs: Transforming the PC Market by 2026
Personal computers with embedded AI in both hardware components and software systems are on the rise. According to Gartner Research, by 2025, these AI PCs are projected to reach 77.8 million units, comprising 31% of the global PC market. Despite facing challenges, the adoption of AI PCs is steadily increasing, with expectations to surpass 50% of sales by 2026.
The shift towards AI PCs stems from concerns around the high costs and security risks associated with cloud-based AI deployments. Companies are now pivoting towards integrating AI directly into PCs to mitigate these issues. IDC’s recent study indicates a significant growth trajectory for AI PCs, projecting a surge from 5% usage in 2023 to a whopping 94% by 2028.
Ranjit Atwal, a senior director of research at Gartner, emphasizes the pivotal role AI PCs play in reshaping the market landscape. Despite some slowdowns in adoption due to market uncertainties, users are recognizing the necessity of AI PCs to prepare for the expanding integration of AI at the edge.
One crucial decision facing users is the choice of AI PC processor. Gartner highlights that Arm-based laptops are gaining traction in the consumer market, driven by enhanced AI app compatibility. In contrast, x86 on Windows is expected to dominate the business sector, commanding 71% of AI laptops by 2025, with Arm holding a 24% share.
To unlock further growth opportunities, PC vendors need to shift focus towards delivering software-defined, user-centric AI PCs tailored for specific roles and use cases. Atwal underscores the importance of customization in shaping the future of AI PCs, enabling users to configure devices with desired apps, features, and functions for a more personalized experience.
According to Forrester Research, while 55% of US online adults appreciate the privacy benefits of AI PCs, a significant portion remains skeptical or unsure about the need for such devices. Over 60% of respondents are inclined to wait for price reductions before considering an AI PC purchase, indicating a price sensitivity in the market.
Understanding the Essence of AI PCs
Organizations are increasingly embracing generative AI on PCs due to its local data storage capability, a stark contrast to cloud-based AI solutions that address critical security concerns. AI PCs leverage local AI processing, offering enhanced data privacy and security risk prevention, which are top priorities for IT leaders.
Dedicated processors such as NPUs, GPUs, and CPUs power AI tasks on these PCs, designed for specialized functions like image recognition and language processing. The market anticipates a flood of newer AI-specific NPUs from Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm to meet the surging demand for AI PCs in the coming years.
GPUs, traditionally known for graphics processing, have emerged as key players in accelerating AI computations. Nvidia’s AI-optimized GPUs, like the RTX series, have gained prominence for AI-driven tasks such as generative models and deep learning.
Operating systems like Windows 11 integrate AI capabilities such as Copilot, voice recognition, and Windows Studio Effects. AI functionalities are embedded in popular apps like Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite, leveraging NPUs and GPUs for accelerated AI tasks like photo editing and transcription.
By the end of 2026, Gartner predicts a significant shift towards AI-focused software vendors, with a sharp increase from 2% in 2024 to 40%. Small language models (SLMs) running locally on devices are set to revolutionize AI capabilities on PCs, offering fast, efficient, and secure AI processing while reducing reliance on cloud services.
AI PCs are not mere marketing gimmicks but catalysts for improved productivity, as highlighted by Steve Long, senior vice president of Lenovo’s Intelligent Devices Group. These devices streamline workflows, enhance security through real-time threat detection, and offer personalized experiences that adapt to user preferences, ultimately boosting efficiency and user satisfaction.
In conclusion, the surge of AI PCs in the market signifies a transformative shift in the way users interact with technology. As AI continues to permeate various aspects of our digital lives, AI PCs stand at the forefront, promising enhanced performance, security, and personalized experiences that cater to the evolving needs of users in the digital age.