A recent poll on TechPowerUp found that most PC users are unwilling to pay extra for hardware with AI capabilities. The survey showed that 84% of respondents would not spend more for AI features, 7% would, and 9% were undecided. With over 26,000 participants, the data suggests that, despite the PC market’s move toward AI integration, most enthusiasts are still doubtful of its worth.
This indicates that hardware companies should consider the preferences of their primary user base. Enthusiasts, likely the majority on TechPowerUP, show minimal interest in AI features. As a result, they are unlikely to pay extra for something they do not desire.
Recognizing this trend, many companies are focusing on adding AI capabilities to their mobile (laptop) segments, which attract a wider audience beyond just enthusiasts. For instance, AMD’s “Strix Point” architecture for laptops will include a new XDNA2 AI accelerator, and the company has even rebranded the series to highlight AI (e.g., Ryzen AI 9 HX 370). However, the upcoming Ryzen 9000 series is not expected to feature an XDNA processor for AI.
Conversely, Intel’s strategy appears to be slightly different. Both their upcoming series—Core Ultra 200V “Lunar Lake” for laptops and Core Ultra 200 “Arrow Lake-S” for desktops—will include an NPU unit for AI tasks. Initial reports indicate that the desktop NPU may not provide significant performance benefits (likely the same architecture as Meteor Lake), with more notable improvements anticipated in future generations (Arrow Lake-Refresh). However, Lunar Lake will have a more advanced NPU processor. It remains unclear whether these new AI features will lead to higher laptop prices, as only a few models have been listed so far.
Source: TechPowerUp
