NEWS  Windows  January 21, 2024  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

As the tech world eagerly anticipates the release of Microsoft's next-generation Windows, rumors surrounding its hardware requirements are sparking conversations about the future of computing. While specifics remain shrouded in speculation, recent reports hint at a significant shift in minimum hardware standards, particularly for AI-powered PCs.

The AI Revolution: Setting the Bar at 16GB RAM

Trendforce, a reputable research firm, suggests that Microsoft is poised to elevate the minimum hardware requirements for AI PCs. The baseline for RAM is rumored to be set at 16GB, signaling a strategic move towards harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence in computing experiences.

40 TOPS: The Performance Imperative

Tom's Hardware adds another layer to the discussion, emphasizing the need for at least 40 TOPS (Tera Operations Per Second) to ensure optimal on-device performance for AI PCs. A measure of computational power, this requirement underscores the demand for dedicated hardware and neural processing units.

Intel's Challenge and the Blue Camp's Expectations

Interestingly, Intel currently faces a challenge, with its Meteor Lake chips reportedly achieving only 34 TOPS. However, optimism reigns in the "blue camp", where expectations for the next generation of processors triple that value. Meanwhile, AMD's Ryzen 8000 processors and Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite platform are rumored to surpass the 40 TOPS threshold.

Subscription Services and Windows' Future

Intriguingly, users are already speculating on what parts of the next-gen Windows experience will necessitate the recently announced Copilot Pro—a subscription service priced at $20/month. The role it plays in unlocking specific features adds another layer of anticipation.

Powering Up for the Future

While details remain scarce, one certainty emerges—the next-gen Windows will demand more power for its features. In contrast to Windows 11's abstract security improvements that left older computers incapable of running the OS officially, the narrative shifts towards the idea that new features in the upcoming release necessitate increased hardware capabilities. The evolving landscape of AI-driven computing promises a transformative era for Windows users.

 IMAGES CREDITS: MICROSOFT | ARTICLE IMAGE BY BUBLIKHAUS ON FREEPIK