With the clock ticking down to Microsoft’s cessation of support for Windows 10, Dell and Intel are embarking on a campaign aimed at reshaping corporate perceptions regarding the upgrade of PC fleets. Their message is clear: this transition should be viewed not merely as a necessary update, but as a strategic opportunity to prepare for the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.
Reimagining IT Infrastructure
In their recently released “Windows 11 & AI PC Readiness Report,” the two tech giants advocate for a proactive approach to PC upgrades. Louise Quennell, senior director of Dell UK’s Client Solutions Group, emphasizes the potential for businesses to rethink their IT infrastructure. She notes that this is an ideal moment for organizations to enhance productivity, foster collaboration, and bolster security through AI-ready PCs.
Intel’s technical sales specialist, Jimmy Wai, echoes this sentiment, describing the refresh cycle as a pivotal moment in the evolution of computing. He highlights a growing awareness among UK IT decision-makers regarding the necessity of AI-capable hardware for future operations, suggesting that the impending end-of-service deadline for Windows 10 presents a prime opportunity for fleet upgrades.
However, the enthusiasm for AI PCs is tempered by market realities. According to Context, a market intelligence firm, demand for these advanced systems remains sluggish. Senior analyst Marie-Christine Pygott points to a lack of compelling software applications that justify the investment in AI hardware as a significant barrier. She notes that many businesses are still grappling with understanding the practical applications of AI and the security implications of adopting new technologies.
Moreover, the anticipated premium pricing for AI-ready systems may deter potential buyers. Gartner analyst Ranjit Atwal suggests that manufacturers may need to reconsider their pricing strategies to stimulate demand.
The report from Dell and Intel draws on insights from a survey of 1,000 IT decision-makers conducted by Focaldata. It reveals that, with Windows 10 support ending on October 14, a substantial 80 percent of UK businesses plan to transition to Windows 11. Yet, concerns regarding software and hardware compatibility, as well as the potential disruption to business processes, linger.
Some organizations view the purchase of AI PCs as a risky endeavor, particularly in the absence of standardized AI software. Compatibility issues arise from Microsoft’s stringent hardware requirements for Windows 11, which may render many relatively new Windows 10 systems incapable of upgrading.
Defining what constitutes an AI PC adds another layer of complexity. Intel describes it simply as a system equipped with a CPU, GPU, and a neural processing unit (NPU). In contrast, Microsoft has introduced the term “Copilot+ PC” to refer to systems with an NPU capable of processing 40 TOPS or more, a benchmark for AI performance.
According to the report, 62 percent of respondents expressed a preference for Copilot+ AI PCs, while 21 percent would choose a standard AI PC, and 12 percent remained uncertain. Notably, 64 percent of participants deemed it critical for their organizations to acquire new PCs that can effectively run AI applications, which may explain the cautious approach many are taking.
While the report touts advanced security features and enhanced employee productivity as key advantages of Windows 11 and its AI capabilities, it also highlights an intriguing contradiction. A study by Intel found that employees using PCs with integrated AI services were actually less productive than those utilizing traditional hardware.
Despite this paradox, the report asserts that adopting Windows 11 and AI PCs can provide a competitive edge in an increasingly AI-driven marketplace. Organizations that embrace this technology stand to gain significant productivity benefits, while those that hesitate risk falling behind.
As the industry moves forward, it’s likely that the question will not be whether organizations will adopt AI PCs, but rather how they will lead this transition. Dell and Intel are prepared to support businesses through this evolution, offering expert guidance, flexible financing options, and a wealth of resources to facilitate the shift.
