AI PCs made up 14% of total personal computer shipments for the second quarter of 2024 as the need for added AI capabilities continues to increase, driving demand, a research firm Canalys has revealed. These devices usually carry feature neural processing units dedicated to performing AI tasks.

According to Reuters, this comes as PC suppliers and chipmakers bet on devices that can perform AI tasks directly on the system and bypassing the cloud. The industry is currently emerging from its worst slump in years.

Apple leads the pack

According to the research firm, Apple accounts for 60% of the AI PC market supported by its Mac portfolio incorporating M-series chips with neural engines.

The research firm added that within Microsoft’s Windows, shipments of AI PC rose by 127% sequentially in the quarter after the company introduced its “Copilot+” in May, with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon.

The research further shows that struggling Intel also ramped up deliveries of its AI PC chips hoping to capitalize on the push toward producing AI-capable devices.

Overall, the quarter witnessed an increase in AI PCs across brands as the market continues to turn to AI to optimize operations and take care of some mundane tasks.

AI PCs see general increase

According to the report, the introduction of AI PCs is adding to the growth in the premium segment. This comes as shipment of Windows PC priced over $800 range grew by 9% sequentially during the quarter under review.

Peers, Lenovo’s AI PC shipment jumped 228%, representing a growth of 6% of its total Windows PC shipments. AI PCs made up 8% of HP’s Windows, while Dell had risen by 7% of its total window shipments represented by AI PCs.

Principal analyst at Canalys Ishan Dutt revealed that this trend is expected to continue into the second half of the year driven by strong demand.

“With a strong foundation now set, AI-capable PC shipments are poised to gain further traction in the second half of 2024.”

Dutt.

The global personal computer market is experiencing recovery after almost two years of being in the doldrums according to International Data Corp (IDC).

With heightened interest in AI capabilities that are touted to optimize productivity, the industry is expected to maintain the growth trajectory for the next three years.

The AI PC segment is projected to record a growth of more than 50% this year. It is expected to double again next year accounting for over 43% of the total PC market.

IDC projects the AI PC will further grow and account for about 60% of all PC sales by 2027.