Microsoft Copilot+: AI Features Now Available on Intel and AMD PCs

Microsoft’s latest update to the Copilot+ ecosystem marks a notable turning point in the evolution of AI-enhanced Windows experiences. Long reserved for Snapdragon-powered devices, the cutting-edge features of Copilot+ are now expanding their reach to include Intel- and AMD-powered PCs—think of it as Microsoft finally opening the VIP door to a more diverse crowd. With flagship devices such as the ASUS ZenBook S 14 leading the charge, a suite of previously exclusive features—including Live Captions, Cocreator, Restyle Image, and Image Creator—are set to empower users across the board while redefining productivity and accessibility.

The Evolution of Copilot+ PCs​

Initially, Microsoft’s ambitious Copilot+ project was tethered exclusively to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chipsets. This limitation meant that only a select range of devices, such as the Surface Pro 11, could boast the AI enhancements that many Windows enthusiasts had only dreamed of. However, recent updates disclosed through Windows Insider channels reveal that Intel Core Ultra and AMD Ryzen AI-powered models (like the AMD Ryzen AI 300 series) are about to join the party.
This strategic pivot is significant because it underscores a broader vision for the Windows ecosystem. All Copilot+ PCs—regardless of the underlying processor—feature dedicated Neural Processing Units (NPUs). Yet, until now, the full spectrum of AI capabilities was primarily showcased on Snapdragon devices. With the latest non-security preview update, Microsoft is not only democratizing these innovations but also reinforcing a commitment to bridging hardware divides.

Key Features Now Available on Intel and AMD Devices​

The rollout brings a host of new features designed to enhance everything from accessibility to creative expression:

• Live Captions with Real-Time Translation
  Perhaps one of the standout additions is the revamped Live Captions. Initially a Snapdragon-only luxury, this feature now converts spoken dialogue into instantaneous, readable text across various contexts—conference calls, podcasts, or even streamed movies. Capable of translating up to 44 languages into English, it effectively breaks down language barriers in real time.
• Cocreator in Paint
  Imagine scribbling a rough idea and having your digital doodle transformed into a polished piece of art. Cocreator leverages AI to breathe creativity into your sketches, making graphic design more accessible than ever before. The tool essentially transforms text prompts into visual masterpieces, meaning even digital amateurs can create something striking.
• Restyle Image and Image Creator
  These two features focus on elevating your visual content game. Restyle Image allows you to give your photos an artistic makeover by applying various stylistic filters and effects, while Image Creator takes it a step further—using nothing but a text prompt, the tool conjures evocative visuals from thin air. These are not just gimmicks; they’re designed to integrate seamlessly with your workflow, be it for social media content, professional presentations, or creative projects.
• Voice Access Enhancements (Coming Soon)
  Although unique Voice Access—where you issue natural language commands to control your PC—is currently exclusive to Snapdragon PCs, Microsoft promises an eventual rollout to Intel and AMD systems later this year. This feature simplifies PC navigation by interpreting everyday language, offering a genuinely intuitive user experience.
• Semantic Search (Future Exclusive)
  Microsoft is also testing “Semantic Search” among Insiders. For the moment, however, it remains exclusive to Snapdragon-powered devices. This tool aims to transform file and settings searches by interpreting the context behind your commands rather than relying solely on exact keyword matches.

Enhancing Accessibility and Communication​

One of the most exciting aspects of these updates is the focus on accessibility. Live Captions do more than just transcribe spoken words—they translate them in real time, enabling users to follow conversations in environments where multiple languages are in play. Imagine a global video conference where participants speak different languages; Live Captions instantly render real-time translations, making for smoother, more inclusive interactions.
Beyond simple transcription, these accessibility features are set to empower users with hearing impairments or those who prefer visual aids. With support for over 44 languages, these features are ideal for workplaces, educational settings, and content creators who interact with a global audience.

The Creativity Revolution: Content Creation Tools on Steroids​

In addition to accessibility, the expanded suite of creative tools represents a significant leap forward for content designers and casual creators alike:

• Cocreator in Paint turns the traditional Microsoft Paint into more than a basic drawing tool—it becomes an AI-powered studio where your rough ideas are refined into visually striking content.
• Restyle Image offers users the opportunity to experiment with various artistic styles, effectively giving your photos a brand-new personality at the click of a button.
• Image Creator is the cherry on top: by simply describing the image you need, the software generates visuals that defy the limits of conventional graphic design.

This impressive lineup is designed to streamline workflows, foster creativity, and drive productivity, ensuring that Windows 11 users can compete in today’s fast-paced digital landscape with ease.

The Hardware Divide: Snapdragon Versus Intel/AMD​

While the transition is exciting for users across all hardware platforms, it also highlights the nuanced differences in how these features are implemented. All Copilot+ PCs are built with NPUs optimized for AI, yet the capabilities differ based on the chipset:

• Snapdragon PCs have historically led the pack with early access to AI tools, thanks to their specialized X Series chips.
• Intel and AMD PCs are now catching up. The rollout of Copilot+ features on systems powered by AMD Ryzen AI 300 series and Intel Core Ultra series ensures these devices can now run AI functions that were once out of reach. In many cases, users will receive incremental improvements via non-security Windows updates before more advanced features like semantic search and native Voice Access become available.

This hardware-specific approach reinforces Microsoft’s dedication to making its AI innovations scalable and inclusive. Although some functionalities remain exclusive to Snapdragon for the time being, the gradual expansion to Intel and AMD implies a future where the differences may blur, offering a more uniform experience across the board.

Deciphering the Copilot+ Landscape: A Name Game​

If you’ve been following Microsoft’s announcements, you might be wondering: “What exactly qualifies as a Copilot+ PC?” The answer remains somewhat murky. Microsoft uses the term “Copilot” across a range of devices and services, including what they call Copilot+, Copilot Pro, and even plain Copilot. Each designation encapsulates different tiers of AI functionality based on the hardware’s capabilities. For instance:

• Every Copilot+ PC features an NPU, but the extent of its AI prowess depends on the chipset.
• Some tools, such as Live Captions with full language support, were earlier confined to Snapdragon devices and are only now being extended.
• Others, like Voice Access, are still under a phased rollout.

One tongue-in-cheek suggestion is that Microsoft might benefit from a tiered system—perhaps Copilot–, Copilot+, and even Copilot²—to clearly delineate which features are available on which hardware. For the time being, enthusiasts will need to navigate this fog of AI branding while eagerly awaiting further clarifications.

Real-World Implications for Windows Users​

For Windows users, particularly those using Intel and AMD systems, this update is cause for celebration. Here’s what the change means in practical terms:

• Greater Accessibility: With enhanced Live Captions and real-time translation, international collaboration becomes frictionless, whether you’re tuning into a webinar or participating in a virtual meeting.
• Boosted Creativity: The creative tools empower not only professional designers but also everyday users. Imagine effortlessly turning a rough sketch into a refined artwork or generating unique visual content with nothing more than a few words.
• Enhanced Productivity: Tools like Cocreator and the upcoming Voice Access streamline day-to-day tasks, enabling users to interact with their devices using natural language rather than rigid commands. This ease of use is bound to improve efficiency—and might just make you wonder if your PC is secretly smarter than you are.
• Uniformity Across Hardware: By extending these advanced features to Intel and AMD PCs, Microsoft is addressing a key inconvenience. Previously, the best AI experiences were locked behind a specific chipset; now, millions more users will enjoy a premium Windows 11 experience without having to switch to Snapdragon devices.

The rollout is part of a broader trend toward infusing everyday computing with AI capabilities. From simple productivity enhancements to revolutionary creative tools, the update underlines how integral AI is becoming to the overall Windows experience.

Looking Ahead: The Future of AI on Windows​

While the current update is impressive, it’s clearly just the beginning. Microsoft’s roadmap includes exciting possibilities:

• Voice Access for Intel/AMD: Although still in its exclusive debut on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, natural language Voice Access is slated to extend its reach later in the year, promising future hands-free control that feels less robotic and more conversational.
• Semantic Search Expansion: Currently exclusive to Snapdragon devices, semantic search represents a transformative way to interact with your files and settings using context rather than rigid keywords. Its eventual rollout will further blur the differences between device types.
• Additional AI-Powered Tools: Beyond the features we’ve discussed, whispers from Windows Insider channels hint at more improvements across the board—from enhanced search functionality to even richer creative applications, showing that the AI wave is far from over.

Microsoft’s iterative approach—rolling out features gradually while testing with Windows Insiders—ensures that while some technologies remain in beta or preview, users are already getting a taste of what tomorrow holds.

In Summary​

Microsoft’s decision to lift the Snapdragon exclusivity on key Copilot+ features is a clear win for Windows users around the globe. By expanding support to Intel and AMD-powered PCs, the company is opening up a world of advanced AI capabilities—ranging from real-time, multi-language Live Captions to transformative creative tools like Cocreator and Restyle Image. As the Copilot+ landscape becomes more inclusive, users can expect a future where AI is an integral, seamless part of everyday computing.
Key points in a nutshell:

• The new update enables AI features formerly exclusive to Snapdragon devices to run on Intel and AMD processors.
• Enhanced accessibility tools, including Live Captions with real-time translation, now support over 44 languages.
• Creative capabilities such as Cocreator, Restyle Image, and Image Creator empower users to generate and transform content with ease.
• Certain features, like semantic search and Voice Access, remain Snapdragon-exclusive—for now—but will likely extend to Intel and AMD later.
• The evolving naming and feature tiering within the Copilot+ ecosystem suggests a need for clearer differentiation in the future.

For Windows enthusiasts eager to explore these AI-driven enhancements, the latest non-security preview update is a compelling invitation to join the future of computing—one where creativity, accessibility, and productivity are seamlessly interwoven. In the rapidly changing landscape of Windows 11 updates, this is one transformation you won’t want to miss.
Happy computing, and may your PC always be smarter than your morning coffee!

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Source: Windows Central Copilot+ PCs with Intel or AMD chips will finally get these previously Snapdragon-exclusive features