Microsoft will unveil new Surface models powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor next month. Alongside these laptops, Microsoft will also unveil its vision for an ‘AI PC’ (Artificial Intelligence-powered computer). Microsoft believes that ARM-based Windows computers will soon surpass the MacBook.
What does Microsoft’s Snapdragon X Elite computer promise?
Reports from sources close to Microsoft indicate that ARM-based computers perform better than the M1 MacBook Air. They excel in CPU and AI-based tasks, showcasing superior performance compared to the MacBook Air.
Microsoft not only compared the Snapdragon X Elite with the M1 MacBook Air but also tested it against specific artificial intelligence and machine learning tasks. Perhaps most importantly, application emulation on ARM devices through Windows 11 is reported to be better than Apple’s Rosetta 2.
This advancement will enable games and applications optimized for Intel and AMD processors to run smoothly on devices powered by the Snapdragon X Elite processor. Furthermore, developers will be able to enhance their applications in this domain leveraging the AI capabilities.
Microsoft is positioning its Arm-based Windows models as “next-generation AI computers.” Among the features included are the AI Explorer tool for searching through device history and Copilot integration.
For its AI PC ambitions, Microsoft aims to use the Snapdragon X Elite instead of Intel processors in the Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 models. Additionally, Qualcomm is expected to introduce new Snapdragon X models later this year.
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella will unveil his vision for artificial intelligence at the event on May 20. This will provide a significant expansion for the Windows on Arm platform. The company believes that within the next 4 years, half of all new Windows devices could have artificial intelligence capabilities.