Microsoft has made changes to the minimum system requirements for Windows 11, clarifying specifications for Copilot+ PCs. Now, in addition to Snapdragon X, Copilot+ devices support AMD Ryzen AI 300 series and Intel Core Ultra 200V series processors.
G. Ostrov
Microsoft has significantly expanded the range of supported processors for Copilot+ PCs by updating the minimum system requirements for Windows 11. Now the new generation of AI computers can run not only on Snapdragon X, but also on processors from AMD and Intel.
What are Copilot+ PCs
Copilot+ PCs represent a new generation of Windows 11-based computers specifically designed to deliver maximum performance when processing artificial intelligence tasks. These devices are equipped with powerful Neural Processing Units (NPUs) and are intended for real-time AI operations.
New Processor Requirements
Microsoft has substantially expanded the list of supported processors for Copilot+ PCs. It now includes:
- AMD Ryzen AI 300 series - AMD's latest processors with integrated NPUs
- Intel Core Ultra 200V series - Intel processors with AI computing support
- Snapdragon X-series - the original processors for Copilot+ PCs
The key requirement for all processors is the presence of an NPU with performance of at least 40 TOPS (trillion operations per second). This ensures the ability to perform complex AI tasks such as real-time translation and image generation.
Increased Memory and Storage Requirements
Microsoft has also tightened requirements for other Copilot+ PC components:
System Memory
The minimum RAM amount has been increased to 16 GB (DDR5 or LPDDR5). This significantly exceeds standard Windows 11 requirements and is due to the need to process large amounts of data when performing AI tasks.
Data Storage
Fast storage with a capacity of at least 256 GB (SSD or UFS) is mandatory. This ensures rapid loading of AI models and data processing.
Unique Capabilities of Copilot+ PCs
The new devices offer revolutionary capabilities:
- Real-time translation - instant translation of text and speech without internet connection
- Image generation - creating images based on text descriptions
- Enhanced video processing - AI-accelerated video editing and processing
- Intelligent automation - smart assistants for everyday tasks
New Hardware Requirements
It's important to note that to use the unique capabilities of Copilot+ PCs, new hardware must be purchased. Existing computers, even those meeting basic Windows 11 requirements, cannot fully support all AI functions without appropriate NPUs.
Additional Windows 11 Improvements
In addition to updating Copilot+ PC specifications, Microsoft also introduced a major USB-C support update aimed at improving this protocol's performance in Windows 11. This includes more stable operation with external devices and improved compatibility.
Market Impact
Expanding support for Intel and AMD processors makes Copilot+ PCs more accessible to a wider range of users. This allows manufacturers to create more diverse device configurations and compete on price, ultimately benefiting consumers.
The updated requirements reflect Microsoft's serious intentions to promote AI technologies in the consumer market and demonstrate that the future of personal computers is inextricably linked to artificial intelligence.
Official Windows 11 system requirements page: Microsoft Windows 11 Specifications
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