Microsoft details hardware requirements after upgrading unsupported PCs to Windows 11

As Windows 10 support is coming to an end, Microsoft and its traditional partners like AMD, Asus, and Dell are encouraging users to switch to Windows 11 as soon as possible. For those who are using older devices that are not eligible for an upgrade, Microsoft has a straightforward recommendation: buy a new system, and ideally one that is Copilot+ PC certified .

So what is a Copilot+ PC? These are devices that meet the minimum AI performance threshold of 40 TOPS NPU (40 trillion operations per second) to take full advantage of Windows 11's new AI-powered features. While not required, Windows 11 24H2 and most of its new features are packed with Copilot and AI (even the small changes are AI-focused). Microsoft has updated the eligible CPU guide on its official support page to help users clearly distinguish which devices are part of the Copilot+ AI lineup and which are not.

Important notes when upgrading hardware

If you replace an unsupported CPU or buy a new PC, check your Windows 11 installation requirements again:

1. The PC Health Check app can be used to check if a new device meets the upgrade requirements – the system will identify and 'green light' if the hardware is eligible.
2. However, updating compatibility information can take up to 24 hours, as the system relies on intelligent evaluation models – taking into account device age, hardware stability, compatibility data, and many other factors.

If Windows hasn't automatically refreshed your eligibility information, or you want to upgrade sooner, Microsoft also provides a manual way to re-enable the Microsoft Compatibility Appraiser – the tool that evaluates your ability to receive upgrades – through:

1. Task Scheduler (Windows built-in task scheduler)
2. Command Prompt

See full instructions at: Microsoft support page

Samuel Daniel

Update 08 August 2025