AI is the future of Windows 11

Microsoft first started promoting the idea of ​​AI-powered Windows in 2024 as the "New Age of Work" - but what is Windows 11 AI? It's a complex combination of innovations and includes AI-enabled PCs, integrated Copilot, and Windows AI Studio. Here are some things we can expect.

Why is AI the future of Windows 11?

A look at upcoming AI-powered PCs makes it clear why the future of Windows 11 is AI. Simply put, AI offers incredible productivity gains. Just as the Word processor makes writing more efficient, Microsoft wants to use AI to make writing better.

The push for new AI-powered devices equipped with powerful NPUs is evidence that some big changes are coming to Windows 11 in the near future. Although the craze for AI-powered devices seems unlikely, they may soon become as familiar as 2-in-1 touchscreen laptops or increasingly beautiful chassis designs.

How will Windows 11 use AI?

It's possible that the way Windows 11 uses AI will change as technology develops. Now, Microsoft is introducing AI-enabled PCs, integrated Windows Copilot, AI software, and even adaptive accessories.

AI-enabled PCs

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AI-enabled PCs will likely have a big impact on how Windows 11 uses AI if they become widespread. They have powerful processors with separate Neural Processing Units (NPUs) that are capable of reducing the strain that AI applications can put on the GPU and CPU. Some tweaks are small but important - for example, the Copilot key on newer devices.

Many other laptops have NPUs (for example, ASUS Zenbook Duo), but promoting the Surface Laptop 6 and Surface Pro 10 is one of the most visible moves towards AI-focused hardware. When these devices hit the market, many familiar applications on Windows 11 will integrate AI features.

Microsoft Paint recently integrated AI features such as Paint Cocreator and AI background removal, while AI in Snipping Tool allows to quickly copy or redact text from screenshots. Even Clipchamp is incorporating AI, providing instant editing suggestions.

Adaptive accessories, capable of 3D printing

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As custom design using AI becomes easier than ever, adaptive, 3D-printable accessories will become more popular. These accessories will work with the Microsoft Adaptive Hub (as well as its successors) and adapt to the user.

These accessories are a "game changer" for people with disabilities who need customized solutions. But they're also useful for those who want to improve their PC setup. Currently, you can purchase pre-made designs from Microsoft through vendors like Shapeways.

Copilot integration for Microsoft 365

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Windows Copilot aims to enhance productivity and creativity through convenience - and users will soon see AI tools integrated into Microsoft 365 products. Now, Windows Copilot can be quickly accessed anywhere. at any time by clicking it on the application toolbar.

However, the great integration is what makes Copilot really stand out. Users can summarize long email threads or draft emails using Copilot in Outlook, or quickly create meeting notes with Copilot for Teams. In the future, we will likely see more Copilot integrations as the product expands.

Windows AI Studio

Developers will also be able to take advantage of Windows AI thanks to the advanced technology built into Windows AI Studio. This application simplifies the process of deploying Small Language Models (SLM) for use in their own applications.

Essentially, Windows AI Studio will provide an aggregated catalog of tools from Azure AI Studio and other sources, making it simpler to find and fine-tune the right SLM. With all the heavy lifting done, users will have more time to focus on the heart of the project.

Do current and older PCs support Windows AI?

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Windows 10 still holds the majority of the market share and its market share has increased recently in May 2024, many people will wonder whether Windows 10 supports AI or not. It looks like older PCs will support Windows AI - Copilot built into Windows 10 is available on some devices, and Microsoft is planning a phased launch for Copilot in a future Windows 10.

Older devices will certainly also have access to OS-agnostic AI integration. You may have seen Copilot integrated into many of your Microsoft Office applications, and can also access AI tools through the web. Considering that Windows 10 still has a huge market share, it's likely that most of the new AI features for Microsoft software will also be supported.

Is Windows 11 with AI worth using?

It's too early to say what Windows 11 with AI will look like. But new features and apps have been released that make this combo attractive. As computers adapt better to users and tasks like 3D modeling and new accessibility attachments become easier, computers will become more useful than ever. Microsoft is very optimistic with its AI integration features, and will certainly continue to spend more efforts to develop this field.

Marvin Fry

Update 07 May 2024