Just over a year since the launch of Apple Intelligence, the initial reaction has been somewhat lukewarm, especially when compared to competitors like Microsoft’s Copilot and Google’s Gemini. However, what’s truly impressive is how Apple has supported its generative AI suite, extending back to the M1 silicon introduced in 2020.
In fact, even the latest AI features, such as live translations and intelligent Shortcuts, are compatible with devices that are nearly five generations old. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for the Windows ecosystem, where the Copilot package has led to some confusion regarding compatibility.
Understanding Copilot and Copilot+
Copilot serves as a comprehensive suite of AI features similar to both Apple Intelligence and Gemini. However, Copilot+ is specifically branded for Windows PCs that meet distinct hardware requirements necessary for AI enhancements. Strangely, many Intel processors released in 2025—even those in the high-performance “H” class—fail to meet these AI processing standards.
This has created an unusual split in the Windows landscape, where advanced AI capabilities are often restricted to lower-cost machines, even if you’ve invested in a more robust laptop.
Is Copilot+ Truly Groundbreaking?
Before delving into the hardware limitations of Copilot+, it’s important to discuss its features. Copilot+ devices are equipped with powerful processors capable of AI acceleration at the operating system level. Notably, Microsoft has integrated the Mu small language model (SML) that runs on the neural processing unit (NPU).
Currently, the NPU must meet specific performance metrics, which seems to be a universally unmet requirement across Intel and AMD processors launched in 2025. For instance, the AI-driven Settings app can comprehend natural language inquiries, offering direct actions. If you type something like, “My screen doesn’t feel smooth,” a dialog appears, enabling you to quickly adjust the refresh rate.
Another intriguing feature of Copilot+ is Recall, which captures snapshots of your activities for easy review later. Simply type a natural language query, and you can find records of past activities, complete with links to relevant pages. This functionality operates directly on your device, ensuring your data remains secure. Further details on this feature can enrich your experience.
Creative Features Powered by Copilot+
Copilot+ also introduces a variety of creative options such as Cocreator, Generative Fill in Paint, and image enhancement features in the native Photos app. However, the real daily utility lies with features like Click to Do in the Snipping Tool. This AI-enabled functionality allows you to analyze on-screen text and images in real-time, similar to what Google Lens and Apple Intelligence offer.
With this feature, you can perform actions like looking up text online, sending emails, or summarizing content seamlessly without having to switch apps.
Hardware Limitations in Copilot+ Machines
Even if you’ve invested $4,899 in a premium Razer Blade 18 equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX and Nvidia’s top-tier GeForce RTX 5090, it still may not run Copilot+ features due to inadequate NPU performance. In contrast, a compact $800 Microsoft tablet with a Qualcomm Snapdragon X processor can handle these advanced AI functionalities perfectly.
This creates frustration among users who feel deprived of meaningful OS enhancements simply due to hardware specifications. Microsoft mandates strict hardware requirements for devices with the Copilot+ designation, including a minimum of 256GB of storage, 16GB of DDR5 RAM, and a processor featuring a dedicated AI accelerator yielding at least 40 TOPS performance. This bottleneck is problematic; many machines still ship with 8GB of RAM or outdated DDR4 memory.
Addressing the Processor Dilemma
The latest Intel Ultra 200 series processors are split into various formats but only the V-series support Copilot+. Even enthusiast-level H and HX series processors miss the NPU benchmarks, thus lacking Copilot+ capabilities. The situation is modestly better with AMD, as only its Ryzen AI 300 series processors can access Copilot+ features.
Why Older Macs Might Be Better
The current landscape for Copilot+ is perplexing. It has led to inconsistency within the Windows 11 experience in terms of pricing and performance. Users may find it disappointing to spend significantly on a high-end Intel processor only to discover that it lacks essential next-gen AI features.
In stark contrast, older Apple products, such as the M1 MacBook Air from 2020, can readily support Apple Intelligence features. While AI may not be the primary factor in choosing a laptop, as companies like Microsoft, Apple, and Google embed AI into their operating systems, these features are poised to redefine computing.
What makes the situation even more bizarre is how an $800 Copilot+ machine can run native AI experiences that a more powerful desktop can’t, while Apple users with legacy devices glide through the transition effortlessly.
As we look toward the future of computing, the integration of AI features into operating systems will not only enhance user experience but also highlight the divide between different ecosystems. For more insights into similar topics, feel free to explore more at Moyens I/O.