Revolutionizing computing: AI PCs and the market outlook
Canalys proposes an initial definition of an AI-capable PC as a desktop or notebook with a dedicated chipset or block to run on-device AI workloads. As technical capabilities, use cases, AI tools and customer requirements evolve, additional hardware will need to be considered to identify PCs that are optimized for on-device AI workloads.
Key insights:
- Canalys forecasts that 19% of PCs shipped in 2024 will be AI-capable under its initial definition. This share will ramp up quickly with the tailwind of a refresh cycle, leading to 60% of PCs shipped in 2027 being AI-capable. Commercial adoption is expected to pick up more rapidly from 2024 onwards, and by 2027, 60% of all AI-capable PCs will be shipped to businesses.
- The major Windows PC OEMs are fully committed to AI-capable PCs, with Microsoft acting as an influential industry leader as it drives forward its vision for hybrid AI. Elsewhere, Apple has been shipping Macs that qualify as AI-enabled PCs since 2020 and has been building a strong narrative for on-device AI through an empowered developer community and its focus on device ecosystems and privacy.
- The emergence of AI-capable PCs brings with it several key opportunities for industry players, including a boost to current and future device refresh cycles and the chance to meaningfully differentiate with out-of-the-box AI tools and attached services.
- Key challenges to overcome include getting channel partners on board to drive rapid commercial adoption, overcoming user resistance through transparent and ethical practices, and creating and showcasing meaningful on-device AI experiences to excite the potential user base.
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