Microsoft has introduced new AI features for Copilot+ PCs, enhancing the functionality of these high-performance devices. Launched in 2024, Copilot+ PCs combine powerful hardware with intelligent software to offer speed, security, and productivity tools. The latest update, rolling out gradually over the next month, brings Recall (preview), Click to Do (preview), and improved Windows Search, designed to make everyday tasks more efficient. Here’s what these updates offer and why they matter.

Performance and Value

Copilot+ PCs have gained popularity, representing 15% of premium-priced laptop sales in the U.S. during the 2024 holiday quarter, according to Microsoft. Starting at $599, they provide a balance of performance and affordability. Key specifications include:

1. Speed: Up to 13% faster than the MacBook Air M4 in multi-core tasks, based on Microsoft-commissioned Cinebench 24 testing. Performance varies by device and workload.
2. Efficiency: Up to 5x faster than a five-year-old Windows PC for AI-driven tasks, per Microsoft testing.
3. Battery Life: Up to 22 hours of video playback or 15 hours of web browsing in lab conditions, though real-world results depend on usage and settings.
4. Security: Enhanced hardware protections make these among the most secure Windows PCs available.

New AI Features

The update introduces three AI tools, processed locally on the device for privacy and performance, powered by a neural processing unit (NPU) capable of over 40 trillion operations per second:

1. Recall (Preview): Rediscover Content Quickly

Allows users to scroll through a timeline of their PC activity or describe content (e.g., documents, images, websites) in natural language to find it.

Microsoft reports that finding a PowerPoint presentation can take up to 70% less time compared to manual searches, based on internal testing.

1. Privacy Controls: Opt-in only, with data encrypted and stored locally, not shared with Microsoft or third parties. Requires Windows Hello sign-in. Users can customize saved content or disable Recall entirely. Businesses with an E3 subscription can access advanced IT controls for data management.
2. Note: Recall is delayed in the European Economic Area (EEA) due to regulatory requirements.

2. Improved Windows Search: Find Files Naturally

1. Enables users to describe files or settings (e.g., “photo from last summer”) instead of searching by exact names.
2. Microsoft claims it can take up to 70% less time to locate and copy an image compared to traditional search on a Windows 10 PC, based on internal testing.

3. Click to Do (Preview): Act on Content Directly

1. Offers shortcuts to summarize, rewrite, or copy text and edit images on-screen via Win+Click (a keyboard shortcut), touchscreen swipe, or tools like Snipping Tool.
2. Microsoft states that removing an object from an image in a PDF can take up to 55% less time, based on internal testing.
3. Image actions are available on all Copilot+ PCs; text actions are rolling out first on Snapdragon X Series devices, with AMD Ryzen and Intel support to follow.

Existing AI Tools

Copilot+ PCs also include:

1. Cocreator in Paint and Restyle Image for creating and editing visuals.
2. Image Creator in Photos for generating images.
3. Live Captions with real-time translation, now supporting Chinese Simplified across 27 languages for audio and video.
4. Windows Studio Effects and Voice Access for improved communication and hands-free control.
5. These tools are built-in, requiring no subscriptions.

Availability

1. Retailers: Available at Amazon, Best Buy, Costco, Walmart, and from manufacturers like Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Microsoft Surface, and Samsung.
2. Businesses: Resellers such as CDW and Bechtle offer volume pricing and support for E3 subscription-based IT controls.
3. Updates: To access the new features, go to Settings > Windows Update, enable “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available,” and check for the latest non-security preview update. Feature availability may vary by device and market.

What’s Next

Microsoft plans to continue updating Copilot+ PCs with features that enhance productivity and creativity, ensuring these devices remain relevant for work and personal use.