Recent research from the International Data Corporation (IDC) indicates that the current success of AI PCs is primarily driven by the regular upgrade cycle rather than the onboard generative AI.
Despite efforts by companies like Microsoft to promote the benefits of generative AI in everyday workflows, consumers are not necessarily swayed by the AI features alone. The demand for new PCs on a regular basis fuels the sales, especially given the prevalence of AI-powered laptops in the market.
While AI remains a trending buzzword, it has not yet become a significant factor influencing PC purchases according to the IDC. However, the IDC does recognize the future potential of AI, although businesses struggle to identify immediate applications, and consumers remain unconvinced of the relevance of AI and Neural Processing Units (NPUs) in their PCs.
Despite consumer hesitation, AI PCs boast significant power and future-proofing, making them appealing even to those without a specific interest in artificial intelligence. The IDC predicts a modest short-term future for AI PCs, with an increasing number of PCs incorporating NPUs in the long term.
Although current consumer preferences may not align with AI PCs, manufacturers are keen on selling them. This positions AI PCs as top contenders for individuals seeking durable, high-performance laptops for long-term use.
The report also notes that the end of Windows 10 support next year could trigger a refresh cycle among commercial customers, potentially leading some businesses to transition to Mac devices. This shift could see Apple’s market share grow from 9.1% to 10.2% by 2026.
The tablet market may experience a temporary growth surge due to advancements in chip technology, screen sizes, and connectivity seen in recent models like the M4 iPad Pro. However, the IDC anticipates a flat long-term outlook for tablets as smartphones become more powerful and PCs continue to offer superior performance.
