Windows Copilot Update: AI Features Now for All AMD and Intel Users

Microsoft’s latest Windows Copilot update is turning heads by finally extending a suite of advanced AI features beyond Snapdragon-powered systems to AMD and Intel platforms. Long touted as a futuristic leap in PC interactivity, these updates promise to transform everyday computing by seamlessly blending AI-driven creativity with enhanced accessibility. Let’s dive into what this means for Windows 11 users and explore how these changes fit into the broader evolution of PC technology.

Elevating Windows Copilot for All CPU Architectures​

Until recently, the enticing features of Copilot+—including Cocreator, Image Creator, Live Captions, and Restyle Image—were largely the preserve of devices powered by Qualcomm’s Arm-based Snapdragon X chips. These devices, often celebrated by tech enthusiasts for their stellar battery performance and cutting-edge design, have been enjoying a head start in the AI revolution. Now, with Microsoft synchronizing its update strategy, AMD Ryzen AI 300 series and Intel Core Ultra 200V CPU-based systems are set to experience the same level of AI engagement.
By breaking the exclusivity barrier, Microsoft is effectively democratizing these intelligent features. What once was a premium experience limited to select devices is now being made broadly accessible, ensuring that more users can leverage generative AI for tasks ranging from image editing to intuitive voice control.

Key Feature Rollouts:​

• Cocreator & Image Creator: These tools tap into the onboard Neural Processing Unit (NPU) to generate or modify images with remarkable ease. Whether you’re refining a graphic in Microsoft Paint or enhancing a photograph in Microsoft Photos, these AI-driven assistants provide a creative boost.
• Live Captions & Restyle Image: Previously a highlight on Snapdragon machines, Live Captions makes media consumption more accessible by automatically generating captions. Restyle Image, on the other hand, offers filters and effects to transform your art or photos with a few clicks.
• Enhanced Voice Access: Tailored for Snapdragon-based systems initially, the improved Voice Access feature leverages NPU capabilities to understand more descriptive and flexible language. This means issuing commands becomes a more intuitive, conversational experience, marking a significant upgrade for users who rely on hands-free interaction.

The Transition from Exclusivity to Universal Access​

For years, the narrative around Copilot+ PCs has been heavily intertwined with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X chips. Marketing campaigns featuring high-profile partners like Dell, HP, and Lenovo drove home the point that these devices were set to revolutionize the Windows experience. However, a recurring criticism was that users with traditional Intel or AMD systems were left on the sidelines when it came to experiencing these novel capabilities.
This update marks a turning point. By enabling features such as Cocreator, Image Creator, and Restyle Image on a broader range of hardware, Microsoft is ensuring that innovation does not remain confined to a narrow niche of devices. The expanded availability not only boosts the appeal of Copilot+ PCs across the board but also enhances the overall value proposition of Windows 11 updates.

Benefits of the Expanded Rollout:​

• Unified Experience: Whether you’re running on an Intel Core Ultra or an AMD Ryzen AI series chip, your Windows 11 device will soon be capable of generating creative content and delivering robust accessibility tools.
• Enhanced Creativity: With features like Image Creator now available to a wider audience, users can experiment with AI-generated modifications and creative reimaginings of their digital artwork.
• Future-Ready Infrastructure: Microsoft’s commitment to updating traditional architectures with AI-enhanced capabilities paves the way for a future where all PCs, regardless of their CPU, can harness the power of advanced machine learning.

Behind the Technology: NPU and CPU Dynamics​

At the core of these advancements is the integration of an onboard NPU—an integral component that accelerates AI-driven tasks. On Snapdragon-powered devices, the NPU’s efficiency has long been recognized for delivering stellar performance, particularly in demanding applications like real-time image processing and nuanced voice recognition. With AMD and Intel now entering the fray, a key question arises: Can these traditional x86-based systems match the efficiency of their Arm-based counterparts?
While AMD’s Ryzen AI series and Intel’s Core Ultra chips do not inherently boast the same power efficiency as Snapdragon’s Arm designs, the update is designed to optimize the use of available hardware resources. By tailoring the AI features to leverage each CPU’s strengths, Microsoft is bridging the performance gap. Users on AMD and Intel PCs can expect robust functionality, albeit with potentially different power and thermal characteristics compared to their Snapdragon cousins.

Comparative Insights:​

• Snapdragon vs. AMD/Intel: Snapdragon systems have been lauded for their efficient power consumption coupled with high performance, making them ideal for portable devices with extended battery life. AMD and Intel, known for superior processing power in legacy applications, are now evolving to incorporate AI-specific enhancements that allow them to support similar generative tasks.
• Onboard NPU Utilization: The evolution of voice control and image generation on Snapdragon devices—thanks to the NPU—provides a preview of what AMD and Intel users can experience. Although the full benefits of NPU-enabled processing may take longer to reach these platforms, the groundwork laid by this update is promising for future iterations.

Enhanced Voice Access and Live Captions: A Closer Look​

One of the standout improvements in this update is the enhanced Voice Access functionality. Historically, interacting with a PC via voice commands on Windows has required users to learn specific syntax and commands—a potential barrier for those seeking a natural user experience. Now, powered by AI and the NPU, the new Voice Access upgrade promises to understand more nuanced, descriptive commands.
For Snapdragon-based Copilot+ PCs, this isn’t just a theoretical improvement. Microsoft’s blog post highlights that these users will be the first to benefit from reduced complexity in command execution. The upgrade leverages the processing capabilities of the NPU to interpret language more flexibly, meaning that users can simply speak naturally rather than memorizing a set of rigid commands.
Equally important is the rollout of Live Captions, which now supports Simplified Chinese on Snapdragon devices—a move that underscores Microsoft’s commitment to global accessibility. Live Captions have already proven to be a game-changer for users who depend on accurate subtitles during video playback or online meetings. Integrating additional language support further enhances its usefulness in diverse settings.

Why This Matters:​

• Improved Accessibility: Enhanced voice control and real-time captions mean that users with varying needs—from those with visual or auditory impairments to non-native English speakers—experience a more inclusive computing environment.
• User Experience: The ability to interact with your PC via natural language commands not only simplifies operations but also fosters a more intuitive relationship between users and their devices.
• Market Impact: As voice interfaces become more refined, we could see a significant shift in how productivity software is developed—prioritizing ease of use and natural interaction.

How to Enable These Upgraded Features​

For those eager to harness the full potential of these upgrades, the pathway is straightforward. Microsoft is rolling out these features progressively via the March 2025 Windows non-security preview update. Here’s what you need to do to ensure you’re ready:

1. Open your Windows 11 Settings and navigate to Windows Update.
2. Enable the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option. This accelerates access to preview releases—ideal for those who don’t want to wait.
3. Click the “Check for updates” button. If your device qualifies—whether powered by AMD Ryzen AI, Intel Core Ultra, or Qualcomm Snapdragon X series—the new features should appear as part of the update.
4. Update key apps like Microsoft Paint and Microsoft Photos to their latest versions to utilize tools like Cocreator and Restyle Image.

Following these steps will not only ensure compatibility but also maximize your experience with the enriched AI tools.

Real-World Implications and User Reflections​

While these new features represent a significant leap forward in AI integration, it’s worth asking: Will they revolutionize daily computing, or are they merely polished add-ons for the tech-savvy? Early adopters report that Live Captions are highly useful—especially in scenarios where clear audio isn’t available. As for generative tools like Image Creator and Cocreator, opinions are mixed. Some users find them delightfully innovative, while others remain skeptical about the practicality of AI-assisted image edits, having long cherished the authenticity of unedited imagery.
However, one area that has sparked substantial excitement is the upgraded voice control. Veteran Windows users, especially those who rely on Voice Access for productivity, are eager to experience a system that can understand more complex, natural language commands. In a world where smart assistants are becoming an extension of human interaction, these improvements are a welcome evolution.

User Feedback Highlights:​

• Accessibility Wins: Users who depend on Live Captions and Voice Access have already noted improvements in engagement and clarity, turning routine tasks into more fluid experiences.
• Creative Tools Debate: While some find AI image generators a fun playground for artistic experiments, others argue that traditional tools still hold the upper hand for nuanced editing tasks.
• Performance Considerations: The expansion of these features to AMD and Intel platforms opens up a larger ecosystem, though real-world performance may vary based on specific hardware configurations.

Looking Ahead: The Future of AI in Windows 11​

This update doesn’t just mark a milestone for Copilot+ PCs—it also signals a broader shift in Microsoft’s strategy. Windows 11 is steadily becoming a canvas upon which the next generation of AI technologies will be painted. As competitors push deeper into integrating machine learning and natural language processing into their products, Microsoft’s inclusive approach could set a new industry standard.

Broader Trends to Watch:​

• Continued Integration: Future updates may see even more AI-powered features, from predictive analytics in everyday apps to advanced cybersecurity measures informed by machine learning.
• Enhanced Collaboration Tools: As remote work and digital collaboration become the norm, tools that simplify communication and accessibility (like improved Voice Access and Live Captions) will likely grow in importance.
• User-Centric Design: By focusing on natural interactions and creative empowerment, Microsoft is paving the way for PCs that adapt to users rather than forcing users to adapt to technology.

For Windows enthusiasts, the message is clear: Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Intel, an advocate for AMD, or a devotee of Snapdragon’s efficiency, the future of Copilot+ PCs is bright. With enhanced AI features now within reach for a wider audience, there’s never been a better time to explore what these innovative tools can do for your daily workflow.

Final Thoughts​

Microsoft’s Copilot update is more than just a routine software refresh—it’s a leap toward a more dynamically interactive future for Windows 11. By expanding features that were once exclusive to Snapdragon-powered systems to include AMD and Intel-based PCs, Microsoft is leveling the playing field and reaffirming its commitment to a user-first design philosophy.
Key takeaways include:

• A unified platform where advanced AI features like Cocreator, Image Creator, Live Captions, and Restyle Image are accessible to a broad range of Windows 11 devices.
• Enhanced Voice Access capabilities that promise more natural, intuitive communication with your PC—a potential game-changer for productivity and accessibility.
• Clear, actionable steps for users to enable these features through the upcoming March 2025 non-security preview update, along with the importance of keeping essential apps updated.

While the industry debate continues over the tangible utility of some AI image tools, one thing is undeniable: the spirit of innovation driving these updates is set to shape not only the future of Windows devices but also broader trends in how we interact with technology. As you wait for your device to update, consider exploring these features and sharing your experiences—your feedback could very well help shape the next wave of Windows 11 updates.
In an era where the line between human and machine interaction is continuously blurring, Microsoft’s Copilot update invites users to embrace a more intelligent, connected, and creative computing experience. Get ready to tell your PC not just what to do, but to converse, collaborate, and create like never before.

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Source: Tom's Guide Microsoft Copilot+ PCs with Snapdragon just got a key upgrade as AMD and Intel models play catch-up