The recent intelligence from Forrester Research has introduced a new perspective on the potential of emerging AI-capable PCs. Contrary to popular belief, these advanced models may not bring substantial benefits to businesses in the near future. The report notes that the absence of a “killer app” is a key factor holding back the widespread adoption of AI PCs, making it difficult for businesses to reap tangible rewards. While AI PCs have the potential to offer localized processing for AI workloads, reducing reliance on expensive cloud resources and improving latency, there are various factors hindering their widespread adoption.
It is important to acknowledge that AI PCs are still in their infancy. This means that there is likely much room for growth and improvement in terms of their performance and capabilities. The current lack of a standout application or use case for AI PCs may be a result of their early stage of development. Just like any emerging technology, it takes time for the full potential to be realized and for groundbreaking applications to be developed.
Another factor affecting the adoption of AI PCs is the ongoing economic conditions that have impacted device refresh rates globally. Businesses may be hesitant to invest in new technology due to uncertainties in the market. While the PC market has shown signs of resurgence recently, there may still be a cautious approach among businesses before they commit to upgrading their systems. This could explain why some companies are waiting for the initial glut of AI PCs to pass before investing in more advanced models.
Additionally, the preference for Windows 10 among businesses may be contributing to the slow adoption of AI PCs. Windows 10 has maintained a dominant market share since its launch and is still the most popular version of the Microsoft-owned operating system. With Windows 10 reaching end-of-life in October 2025, businesses may be hesitant to invest in new AI PCs that are not compatible with their preferred operating system. This could be a significant barrier for the adoption of AI PCs as businesses would need to consider the cost and effort involved in transitioning to a new operating system.
While Forrester Research expresses skepticism about the immediate impact of AI PCs, other market analysts have a more optimistic view. Canalys, for example, predicts substantial year-on-year growth for AI PCs. Their forecasts suggest that by 2024, 50 million PCs shipped will be AI-capable. Furthermore, with around 57 million total devices shipped in the first quarter of this year, it is possible that AI PCs could account for one in four or one in five shipments. These figures indicate a growing interest and demand for AI-capable PCs in the market.
In conclusion, the opinions on the potential of AI-capable PCs are varied. While Forrester Research highlights the lack of a “killer app” and potential challenges hindering the adoption of AI PCs, there are contrasting views that suggest significant growth and demand. As the development of AI technology continues to evolve, it is likely that the true potential of AI PCs will be unlocked, and businesses will ultimately benefit from their capabilities. The current stage of AI PC development should be seen as a stepping stone towards a future where AI becomes an integral part of computing, revolutionizing various industries and enhancing productivity.
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