Microsoft aims to transform Windows into an AI OS with Copilot+ PCs launch

The company emphasises the privacy of user data, assuring that it remains private and stored solely on the user’s device.
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Microsoft is pushing generative AI to the forefront of Windows and its PCs. At its Build developer conference, the company unveiled new Copilot+ PCs and AI-powered features like Recall, designed to help users find past apps and files. These AI-first devices, featuring dedicated chips called NPUs, will be deeply integrated into Windows 11. The first models will use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite and Plus chips, promising extensive battery life, with Intel and AMD also on board to create processors for these devices.

In addition to the Copilot+ PCs, Microsoft introduced new Surface devices, including the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro. The Surface Laptop now features up to 22 hours of battery life and faster performance, while the new Surface Pro boasts a 90% speed increase, an OLED display, and an upgraded front-facing camera. Both devices support Wi-Fi 7 and have haptic feedback features.

Microsoft’s upcoming Recall feature for Windows 11 will allow users to ‘remember’ apps and content accessed weeks or months ago, enabling them to find past activities easily. Recall can associate colours, images, and more, allowing natural language searches. Microsoft emphasises user privacy, ensuring that all data remains on the device and is not used for AI training.

Other AI enhancements include Super Resolution for upscaling old photos and Live Captions with translations for over 40 languages. These features are powered by the Windows Copilot Runtime, which supports generative AI-powered apps even without an internet connection. CapCut, a popular video editor, will utilise this runtime to enhance its AI capabilities.