You may have recently completed a Windows 11 update, only to find yourself puzzled by the absence of the much-discussed Microsoft feature known as Recall. It’s a feature your friend, sporting a new laptop, showcased with enthusiasm. However, as you navigate through Paint, hoping to find Cocreator, you come up empty-handed. A search for Click to Do yields no results either. If this scenario resonates with you, rest assured you are not alone; several hundred million Windows 11 users are experiencing similar frustrations. Interestingly, even a high-end RTX 5090 gaming rig, which commands a price comparable to a used car, may lack access to these features, while a modest ARM laptop purchased on EMI seems to enjoy them from day one.
So, what’s the underlying issue? Microsoft has discreetly divided Windows 11 into two tiers, with the latest AI functionalities residing behind a hardware barrier known as Copilot+ PC. Understanding this distinction is crucial before investing in any hardware fixes that may not resolve the issue at hand.
What Is a Copilot+ PC, Really?
A Copilot+ PC does not represent a different operating system; it remains Windows 11. The differentiation is purely based on hardware specifications. To qualify for the Copilot+ designation, a laptop or desktop must adhere to a specific set of requirements established by Microsoft in 2024 and maintained through 2026:
- An NPU capable of at least 40 TOPS
- 16 GB of RAM minimum (DDR5 or LPDDR5)
- 256 GB of SSD storage minimum
- Windows 11 version 24H2 or newer
- A processor from one of three approved families: Qualcomm Snapdragon X series, Intel Core Ultra 200V (Lunar Lake), or AMD Ryzen AI 300 series
The last point often trips users up. Your Core i7 from 2023 may outperform some of these chips in raw benchmarks, yet it lacks the requisite co-processor, resulting in Windows withholding access to the AI tier.
CPU vs GPU vs NPU: The Easy Way to Think About It
While most users are familiar with CPUs and GPUs, the NPU is the new player in the field. To visualize their roles: the CPU serves as the general brain of the PC, managing everything from opening browser tabs to executing Excel formulas—effective at many tasks but not exceptional at any. The GPU, on the other hand, specializes in graphics rendering, video editing, and accelerating 3D work, albeit with a significant power draw.
The NPU is a dedicated AI engine embedded within the processor, designed solely for processing machine-learning mathematics. This specialization allows it to perform its tasks rapidly and with minimal power consumption compared to a GPU. Microsoft’s choice to utilize NPUs as the gatekeepers, rather than GPUs, stems from a desire for AI features that can operate seamlessly in the background without draining battery life.
Why Your Windows 11 PC Doesn’t Get AI Features
The reasons for missing AI features are multifaceted, with most PCs likely falling short on more than one count.
No Dedicated NPU
This is the most prevalent issue. Any device manufactured before late 2024 falls into this category, including most i5/i7 laptops, nearly every desktop motherboard combination, and every AMD chip prior to the Ryzen AI 300 series. No NPU means no Copilot+. There are no driver fixes, BIOS updates, or software workarounds that can compensate for the absence of physical hardware.
The NPU Exists, but Doesn’t Hit 40 TOPS
Many users mistakenly believe they are in the clear. The initial wave of Intel Core Ultra chips (Meteor Lake) featured NPUs rated around 10–11 TOPS, while AMD’s Ryzen 7040 series offered similar performance. Although these are indeed NPUs, they do not meet Microsoft’s threshold of 40 TOPS, which is essential for accessing AI features.
Unsupported Processor Generation
Even if a CPU is equipped with a powerful NPU, Microsoft maintains a strict allowlist of qualifying chip families. As of 2026, this list includes Snapdragon X, Intel Core Ultra 200V (Lunar Lake), and Ryzen AI 300. Future generations, such as Ryzen AI 400, will be added as they become available. Any processor outside this list, including recent flagship desktop CPUs lacking an NPU, will be excluded.
Wrong Windows Version
Copilot+ features are available only with Windows 11 24H2 or later. If your update history is stuck at 23H2 due to compatibility holds, deferred update policies, or simply an outdated installation, the features will not appear, even on supported hardware. It’s worth verifying this before assuming the issue lies with the hardware.
Feature Rollout Delays
Microsoft employs a staggered release strategy. Recall experienced multiple delays before becoming generally available on Copilot+ PCs in late 2025, while Click to Do continues to receive new actions through updates. Thus, even on a perfectly equipped Copilot+ machine, certain features may not yet be accessible.
Region or Language Limits
Some features depend on language and region settings. Certain markets, such as India, may receive features later or with limited language support. For instance, Live Captions currently translate from over 40 languages into English, but the reverse translation is still pending.
A practical observation from testing on both an M2 MacBook Air and a Windows 11 Pro 25H2 machine lacking an NPU reveals that the absence of features is often silent. Windows does not notify users of missing functionalities; they simply do not appear in the menu.
What AI Features Are Locked Behind Copilot+?
The following features are exclusively available on Copilot+ PCs, along with commentary on their practical utility:
- Recall: Captures encrypted screenshots periodically, allowing users to search for past activities in plain English. While useful for multitaskers, it raises privacy concerns.
- Click to Do: Enables users to highlight items on screen and execute AI actions, such as summarizing text or blurring backgrounds. This feature is seen as more beneficial than Recall.
- Cocreator in Paint: Allows users to create rough sketches and generate interpretations based on prompts. It requires an internet connection for optimal functionality.
- Windows Studio Effects: Offers background blur, eye contact correction, and voice clarity for webcams. Basic blur functions are available on non-Copilot+ PCs, while advanced effects are restricted.
- Live Captions with Translation: Generates real-time subtitles translated from 40+ languages into English, functioning offline. This feature is particularly impressive during video calls.
- Improved Windows Search (AI Search): Facilitates file searches using descriptions rather than filenames, indexed locally via the NPU.
- Auto Super Resolution: Upscales games in real time using the GPU+NPU pipeline, appealing primarily to handheld Windows gaming devices.
The necessity for local AI hardware, rather than relying solely on cloud connections, is driven by two key factors: latency and cost-efficiency for Microsoft. An NPU executing on-device models provides rapid responses without incurring cloud expenses.
Why Microsoft Is Pushing NPUs So Hard
There are compelling engineering and business reasons behind Microsoft’s strong advocacy for NPUs. From an engineering perspective, local AI offers faster performance, offline functionality, and significantly lower battery consumption compared to cloud-based solutions. For instance, if Cocreator required constant connectivity to Azure for each brush stroke, it would be impractical. Similarly, if Live Captions translation depended on Wi-Fi, it would be ineffective in offline scenarios.
On the business side, Microsoft emphasizes privacy, ensuring that user data remains encrypted and stored locally. This is particularly relevant for features like Recall, which captures extensive user activity. However, the initial launch of Recall faced criticism for privacy concerns, prompting Microsoft to delay its release and revise security measures before reintroducing it in 2025. Despite these revisions, researchers continue to identify potential vulnerabilities, highlighting the ongoing challenges in balancing innovation with user privacy.
Moreover, there is a broader critique among Windows power users regarding the Copilot+ tier, suggesting it serves as a blend of genuine innovation and marketing strategy aimed at stimulating hardware upgrades. The label of “AI PC” has proven effective in driving laptop sales, benefiting both Microsoft and its OEM partners.
How to Check If Your PC Supports Copilot+ Features
To determine whether your PC is compatible with Copilot+ features, follow these three straightforward checks:
- Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), navigate to the Performance tab, and check the left sidebar for an NPU entry. If it’s present, you have an NPU; if not, you don’t.
- Press Win + R, type
winver, and hit Enter. Ensure that you see Windows 11 version 24H2 or newer.
- Check your processor: Press Win + R, type
msinfo32, and look for “Processor.” Cross-reference against the approved list (Snapdragon X, Core Ultra 200V, Ryzen AI 300, or newer).
If all three checks are successful, you should have access to AI features. If any check fails, you’ve identified the limitation. Note that the TOPS rating itself is not displayed in Windows; you will need to consult the manufacturer’s website for specifics.
Can You Force Copilot+ Features on Unsupported PCs?
While there are registry tweaks, third-party tools like ViVeTool, and insider-build hacks that claim to enable features like Recall or Click to Do on unsupported hardware, their effectiveness is often temporary. Some users have successfully run Click to Do and parts of Windows Studio Effects on older machines. However, several caveats should be considered:
- These workarounds may cease functioning with any Windows update that re-evaluates hardware.
- Features relying on a real NPU will default to the CPU, often resulting in sluggish performance and significant battery drain.
- Some features are gated by signed cloud entitlement checks, making them impossible to bypass.
- Recall is particularly challenging to emulate, as it relies on hardware-attested encryption via the TPM, Pluton, and Virtualization Based Security. Attempting to bypass these checks undermines the very protections that were enhanced during its re-release.
While experimentation may be intriguing, it is not advisable for your primary work machine.
Are Copilot+ Supported PCs or Laptops Actually Worth Buying?
The answer to this question varies significantly depending on the individual’s needs and circumstances.
For students, the consensus leans towards “nice to have, not need to have.” Copilot+ ARM laptops boast impressive battery life, often exceeding 15 hours of real browser work. However, most academic tasks are browser-based, where local NPU features have limited impact.
Office users may find greater value in Copilot+ features. Tools like Click to Do and Live Captions can enhance productivity, especially for those engaged in frequent calls or research. Recall, however, remains divisive; while some appreciate its utility, others prefer to forgo it. Overall, the on-device productivity tools become second nature after a few weeks of use.
Content creators occupy a middle ground. While the NPU is beneficial for background tasks such as noise suppression and webcam effects, most creative software continues to rely heavily on GPU acceleration. Consequently, a workstation equipped with a robust dedicated GPU may outperform a Copilot+ laptop for intensive creative tasks.
Gamers find themselves in a challenging position. Most Copilot+ laptops in 2026 are still lightweight ARM or thin-and-light Intel/AMD models lacking powerful gaming GPUs. While Auto Super Resolution is an intriguing feature, it is not the primary reason for purchasing a Copilot+ PC. Casual users, primarily engaged in email and streaming, may not find these features necessary at this stage.
It is also important to note that if you are considering ARM-based Copilot+ machines (Snapdragon X), app compatibility has improved significantly due to Prism emulation. However, some niche applications, antivirus tools, and older games may still encounter issues. Verifying your specific software requirements before making a switch is advisable.
Should You Upgrade Your Laptop for Windows AI Features?
The short answer is that most individuals can afford to wait.
Consider upgrading if your current laptop is over four years old, your work directly benefits from on-device AI (such as translation or accessibility), or you genuinely desire the extended battery life offered by ARM Copilot+ machines.
Conversely, if your existing device still performs adequately, you primarily operate within a browser, or you are uncertain about which AI features would be beneficial in your daily routine, it may be wise to hold off.
If you purchased a flagship laptop in 2023 or 2024, waiting is advisable. Your CPU and GPU remain robust, and the current AI feature set does not warrant replacing a functioning machine.
The landscape is also evolving. AMD’s Ryzen AI 400 series and Intel’s next-generation NPUs are set to exceed 60 TOPS. If you can delay your purchase by six to twelve months, you may secure more capable hardware at a similar price point.
The Honest Bottom Line
Most Windows 11 PCs are not lacking AI features due to software bugs or oversight from Microsoft. Instead, they are missing these functionalities because they do not possess a 40 TOPS NPU, and there is no software workaround for this limitation.
The more challenging reality, one that Microsoft may not openly acknowledge, is that most users are not missing out on much at this time. Recall is intriguing but optional, Click to Do is convenient yet not essential, and Live Captions is the most genuinely useful feature, though it primarily benefits those dealing with multilingual content.
As the Copilot+ ecosystem matures, more applications will integrate with the NPU, and the significance of the AI feature gap will become more pronounced. However, as of May 2026, that gap does not feel critical. If you own a functioning Windows 11 PC, you are not lagging behind; rather, you are simply on the older tier of a path that Microsoft is still developing.
FAQ
Why doesn’t my Windows 11 PC have Recall? Recall is exclusive to Copilot+ PCs equipped with a 40+ TOPS NPU running Windows 11 version 24H2 or later. If your laptop’s NPU is below this threshold or lacks an NPU entirely, Recall will not appear in Settings.
Can I install Copilot+ features manually on an unsupported PC? There are registry tweaks and tools like ViVeTool that can force-enable some features, but they are unstable, often break with Windows updates, and may run AI on your CPU with poor performance. This is not recommended for a primary work machine.
Do gaming PCs with RTX GPUs support Windows AI features? Not by default. Copilot+ specifically requires a 40 TOPS NPU, and most gaming desktops, even those with an RTX 5090, do not have an NPU. An RTX GPU excels in cloud AI workloads and creative applications, but Windows reserves Copilot+ features for NPU-equipped systems.
What does 40 TOPS actually mean? TOPS stands for Trillion Operations Per Second, measuring the AI processing capability of the NPU. Microsoft established 40 TOPS as the minimum standard for effective local AI performance. Below this threshold, features like Live Captions translation may experience delays.
Do I need a new laptop to use Windows AI tools? Only for on-device features (Recall, Click to Do, Cocreator, Studio Effects, Live Captions with translation, Auto Super Resolution). The Copilot app itself operates on any Windows 11 PC since it runs in the cloud. If cloud-based Copilot meets your needs, your current laptop is sufficient.
Why Your Windows 11 PC Doesn’t Get AI Features
You may have recently completed a Windows 11 update, only to find yourself puzzled by the absence of the much-discussed Microsoft feature known as Recall. It’s a feature your friend, sporting a new laptop, showcased with enthusiasm. However, as you navigate through Paint, hoping to find Cocreator, you come up empty-handed. A search for Click to Do yields no results either. If this scenario resonates with you, rest assured you are not alone; several hundred million Windows 11 users are experiencing similar frustrations. Interestingly, even a high-end RTX 5090 gaming rig, which commands a price comparable to a used car, may lack access to these features, while a modest ARM laptop purchased on EMI seems to enjoy them from day one.
So, what’s the underlying issue? Microsoft has discreetly divided Windows 11 into two tiers, with the latest AI functionalities residing behind a hardware barrier known as Copilot+ PC. Understanding this distinction is crucial before investing in any hardware fixes that may not resolve the issue at hand.
What Is a Copilot+ PC, Really?
A Copilot+ PC does not represent a different operating system; it remains Windows 11. The differentiation is purely based on hardware specifications. To qualify for the Copilot+ designation, a laptop or desktop must adhere to a specific set of requirements established by Microsoft in 2024 and maintained through 2026:
The last point often trips users up. Your Core i7 from 2023 may outperform some of these chips in raw benchmarks, yet it lacks the requisite co-processor, resulting in Windows withholding access to the AI tier.
CPU vs GPU vs NPU: The Easy Way to Think About It
While most users are familiar with CPUs and GPUs, the NPU is the new player in the field. To visualize their roles: the CPU serves as the general brain of the PC, managing everything from opening browser tabs to executing Excel formulas—effective at many tasks but not exceptional at any. The GPU, on the other hand, specializes in graphics rendering, video editing, and accelerating 3D work, albeit with a significant power draw.
The NPU is a dedicated AI engine embedded within the processor, designed solely for processing machine-learning mathematics. This specialization allows it to perform its tasks rapidly and with minimal power consumption compared to a GPU. Microsoft’s choice to utilize NPUs as the gatekeepers, rather than GPUs, stems from a desire for AI features that can operate seamlessly in the background without draining battery life.
Why Your Windows 11 PC Doesn’t Get AI Features
The reasons for missing AI features are multifaceted, with most PCs likely falling short on more than one count.
No Dedicated NPU
This is the most prevalent issue. Any device manufactured before late 2024 falls into this category, including most i5/i7 laptops, nearly every desktop motherboard combination, and every AMD chip prior to the Ryzen AI 300 series. No NPU means no Copilot+. There are no driver fixes, BIOS updates, or software workarounds that can compensate for the absence of physical hardware.
The NPU Exists, but Doesn’t Hit 40 TOPS
Many users mistakenly believe they are in the clear. The initial wave of Intel Core Ultra chips (Meteor Lake) featured NPUs rated around 10–11 TOPS, while AMD’s Ryzen 7040 series offered similar performance. Although these are indeed NPUs, they do not meet Microsoft’s threshold of 40 TOPS, which is essential for accessing AI features.
Unsupported Processor Generation
Even if a CPU is equipped with a powerful NPU, Microsoft maintains a strict allowlist of qualifying chip families. As of 2026, this list includes Snapdragon X, Intel Core Ultra 200V (Lunar Lake), and Ryzen AI 300. Future generations, such as Ryzen AI 400, will be added as they become available. Any processor outside this list, including recent flagship desktop CPUs lacking an NPU, will be excluded.
Wrong Windows Version
Copilot+ features are available only with Windows 11 24H2 or later. If your update history is stuck at 23H2 due to compatibility holds, deferred update policies, or simply an outdated installation, the features will not appear, even on supported hardware. It’s worth verifying this before assuming the issue lies with the hardware.
Feature Rollout Delays
Microsoft employs a staggered release strategy. Recall experienced multiple delays before becoming generally available on Copilot+ PCs in late 2025, while Click to Do continues to receive new actions through updates. Thus, even on a perfectly equipped Copilot+ machine, certain features may not yet be accessible.
Region or Language Limits
Some features depend on language and region settings. Certain markets, such as India, may receive features later or with limited language support. For instance, Live Captions currently translate from over 40 languages into English, but the reverse translation is still pending.
A practical observation from testing on both an M2 MacBook Air and a Windows 11 Pro 25H2 machine lacking an NPU reveals that the absence of features is often silent. Windows does not notify users of missing functionalities; they simply do not appear in the menu.
What AI Features Are Locked Behind Copilot+?
The following features are exclusively available on Copilot+ PCs, along with commentary on their practical utility:
The necessity for local AI hardware, rather than relying solely on cloud connections, is driven by two key factors: latency and cost-efficiency for Microsoft. An NPU executing on-device models provides rapid responses without incurring cloud expenses.
Why Microsoft Is Pushing NPUs So Hard
There are compelling engineering and business reasons behind Microsoft’s strong advocacy for NPUs. From an engineering perspective, local AI offers faster performance, offline functionality, and significantly lower battery consumption compared to cloud-based solutions. For instance, if Cocreator required constant connectivity to Azure for each brush stroke, it would be impractical. Similarly, if Live Captions translation depended on Wi-Fi, it would be ineffective in offline scenarios.
On the business side, Microsoft emphasizes privacy, ensuring that user data remains encrypted and stored locally. This is particularly relevant for features like Recall, which captures extensive user activity. However, the initial launch of Recall faced criticism for privacy concerns, prompting Microsoft to delay its release and revise security measures before reintroducing it in 2025. Despite these revisions, researchers continue to identify potential vulnerabilities, highlighting the ongoing challenges in balancing innovation with user privacy.
Moreover, there is a broader critique among Windows power users regarding the Copilot+ tier, suggesting it serves as a blend of genuine innovation and marketing strategy aimed at stimulating hardware upgrades. The label of “AI PC” has proven effective in driving laptop sales, benefiting both Microsoft and its OEM partners.
How to Check If Your PC Supports Copilot+ Features
To determine whether your PC is compatible with Copilot+ features, follow these three straightforward checks:
winver, and hit Enter. Ensure that you see Windows 11 version 24H2 or newer.msinfo32, and look for “Processor.” Cross-reference against the approved list (Snapdragon X, Core Ultra 200V, Ryzen AI 300, or newer).If all three checks are successful, you should have access to AI features. If any check fails, you’ve identified the limitation. Note that the TOPS rating itself is not displayed in Windows; you will need to consult the manufacturer’s website for specifics.
Can You Force Copilot+ Features on Unsupported PCs?
While there are registry tweaks, third-party tools like ViVeTool, and insider-build hacks that claim to enable features like Recall or Click to Do on unsupported hardware, their effectiveness is often temporary. Some users have successfully run Click to Do and parts of Windows Studio Effects on older machines. However, several caveats should be considered:
While experimentation may be intriguing, it is not advisable for your primary work machine.
Are Copilot+ Supported PCs or Laptops Actually Worth Buying?
The answer to this question varies significantly depending on the individual’s needs and circumstances.
For students, the consensus leans towards “nice to have, not need to have.” Copilot+ ARM laptops boast impressive battery life, often exceeding 15 hours of real browser work. However, most academic tasks are browser-based, where local NPU features have limited impact.
Office users may find greater value in Copilot+ features. Tools like Click to Do and Live Captions can enhance productivity, especially for those engaged in frequent calls or research. Recall, however, remains divisive; while some appreciate its utility, others prefer to forgo it. Overall, the on-device productivity tools become second nature after a few weeks of use.
Content creators occupy a middle ground. While the NPU is beneficial for background tasks such as noise suppression and webcam effects, most creative software continues to rely heavily on GPU acceleration. Consequently, a workstation equipped with a robust dedicated GPU may outperform a Copilot+ laptop for intensive creative tasks.
Gamers find themselves in a challenging position. Most Copilot+ laptops in 2026 are still lightweight ARM or thin-and-light Intel/AMD models lacking powerful gaming GPUs. While Auto Super Resolution is an intriguing feature, it is not the primary reason for purchasing a Copilot+ PC. Casual users, primarily engaged in email and streaming, may not find these features necessary at this stage.
It is also important to note that if you are considering ARM-based Copilot+ machines (Snapdragon X), app compatibility has improved significantly due to Prism emulation. However, some niche applications, antivirus tools, and older games may still encounter issues. Verifying your specific software requirements before making a switch is advisable.
Should You Upgrade Your Laptop for Windows AI Features?
The short answer is that most individuals can afford to wait.
Consider upgrading if your current laptop is over four years old, your work directly benefits from on-device AI (such as translation or accessibility), or you genuinely desire the extended battery life offered by ARM Copilot+ machines.
Conversely, if your existing device still performs adequately, you primarily operate within a browser, or you are uncertain about which AI features would be beneficial in your daily routine, it may be wise to hold off.
If you purchased a flagship laptop in 2023 or 2024, waiting is advisable. Your CPU and GPU remain robust, and the current AI feature set does not warrant replacing a functioning machine.
The landscape is also evolving. AMD’s Ryzen AI 400 series and Intel’s next-generation NPUs are set to exceed 60 TOPS. If you can delay your purchase by six to twelve months, you may secure more capable hardware at a similar price point.
The Honest Bottom Line
Most Windows 11 PCs are not lacking AI features due to software bugs or oversight from Microsoft. Instead, they are missing these functionalities because they do not possess a 40 TOPS NPU, and there is no software workaround for this limitation.
The more challenging reality, one that Microsoft may not openly acknowledge, is that most users are not missing out on much at this time. Recall is intriguing but optional, Click to Do is convenient yet not essential, and Live Captions is the most genuinely useful feature, though it primarily benefits those dealing with multilingual content.
As the Copilot+ ecosystem matures, more applications will integrate with the NPU, and the significance of the AI feature gap will become more pronounced. However, as of May 2026, that gap does not feel critical. If you own a functioning Windows 11 PC, you are not lagging behind; rather, you are simply on the older tier of a path that Microsoft is still developing.
FAQ
Why doesn’t my Windows 11 PC have Recall? Recall is exclusive to Copilot+ PCs equipped with a 40+ TOPS NPU running Windows 11 version 24H2 or later. If your laptop’s NPU is below this threshold or lacks an NPU entirely, Recall will not appear in Settings.
Can I install Copilot+ features manually on an unsupported PC? There are registry tweaks and tools like ViVeTool that can force-enable some features, but they are unstable, often break with Windows updates, and may run AI on your CPU with poor performance. This is not recommended for a primary work machine.
Do gaming PCs with RTX GPUs support Windows AI features? Not by default. Copilot+ specifically requires a 40 TOPS NPU, and most gaming desktops, even those with an RTX 5090, do not have an NPU. An RTX GPU excels in cloud AI workloads and creative applications, but Windows reserves Copilot+ features for NPU-equipped systems.
What does 40 TOPS actually mean? TOPS stands for Trillion Operations Per Second, measuring the AI processing capability of the NPU. Microsoft established 40 TOPS as the minimum standard for effective local AI performance. Below this threshold, features like Live Captions translation may experience delays.
Do I need a new laptop to use Windows AI tools? Only for on-device features (Recall, Click to Do, Cocreator, Studio Effects, Live Captions with translation, Auto Super Resolution). The Copilot app itself operates on any Windows 11 PC since it runs in the cloud. If cloud-based Copilot meets your needs, your current laptop is sufficient.