Microsoft Copilot+ Daily news digest, 06-05-2025

Executive summary:

The recent news coverage around Microsoft Copilot+ PCs reveals a multifaceted landscape with both promising advancements and notable challenges across various dimensions.

Hardware aspects are highlighted by the adoption of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Plus 10-core processors integrated with dedicated neural processing units (NPUs) specialized for AI workloads. This architecture supports Copilot+ features efficiently and aligns well with Windows 11 hardware requirements. Key OEMs such as Lenovo, Samsung, HP, and ASUS are involved in bringing these devices to market, which bodes well for diverse hardware options. However, the inclusion of certain essential peripherals, like the Flex keyboard for the Surface Pro Copilot+ device, is an additional expense not bundled with the base price. The pricing strategy places some models near all-time lows (e.g., $762 for a base Surface Pro Snapdragon X Plus device), but the overall cost including accessories and warranty differences could temper user enthusiasm.

When it comes to Battery Life and System Performance, there is a noticeable lack of detailed public benchmarks or user feedback. The Snapdragon platform is traditionally geared toward efficiency and moderate performance suitable for everyday computing tasks, but direct data about real-world runtime or processing capability under AI workloads remains sparse. This absence limits definitive conclusions on whether battery endurance meets expectations and how system responsiveness handles the demands of Copilot+ AI features.

On the Software front, Copilot+ is positioned as a collection of AI-powered tools integrated into Windows 11, aiming to streamline productivity tasks such as automating multi-step workflows and offering intelligent assistance within native applications like Paint and Excel. The rollout of Copilot+ features across Windows Insider channels and production PCs suggests steady progress, though some features remain unavailable in early builds, which might impact early adopter experiences. Marketing around Copilot and Windows 11 AI tools has apparently caused some user confusion, indicating a gap between promotional messaging and clear feature communication.

Compatibility is a critical concern underscored by the end-of-life for Windows 10 and Microsoft/OEM encouragement to upgrade to Windows 11 Copilot+ capable PCs. Many existing devices are ineligible for official Windows 11 upgrades due to hardware constraints, effectively pushing users toward purchasing new Copilot+ machines. This strategy ensures hardware and software synergy but may alienate users with older systems unable or unwilling to upgrade, especially since alternative OS routes appear discouraged.

In terms of Security and Privacy, while specific details are limited in these reports, concerns do arise indirectly through the cautious adoption in commercial environments. Enterprises demonstrate uncertainty about permissible AI usage and data protections, factors that influence purchasing decisions. The nascent state of AI applications and potential risks around data handling are likely contributing to reserved enthusiasm amidst commercial and security stakeholders.

Reliability insights are still emerging given the relatively new nature of Copilot+ devices and software integrations. OEM promotions and multiple suppliers backing the ecosystem promise a broad support base, but the scarcity of user reviews and real-world usage data leaves open questions about long-term durability and consistent user experiences.

From a Market Adoption and economic perspective, slower-than-expected AI PC sales are attributed to a combination of factors: the higher price premium of AI-enabled machines, limited availability of compelling AI applications ("killer apps") that justify the investment, and ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainties that make IT budgeting cautious. While OEMs predict significant portions of their portfolios will become AI-capable within a few years, current demand appears suppressed by these multifactorial challenges.

Overall, Microsoft’s Copilot+ PCs signify a meaningful step toward embedding AI more deeply into everyday computing through integrated hardware and software. However, users and enterprises face trade-offs involving cost, upgrade requirements, and the evolving software ecosystem. The cautious market response and mixed messaging reflect the transitional phase of this technology trend, highlighting the need for clearer communication, broader software innovation, and improved affordability to realize the full potential of Copilot+.

Details

Microsoft’s most affordable Surface Pro Snapdragon X Plus Copilot+ PC hits $762 all-time low

Key positive aspects of Copilot+ Key concerns related to Copilot+
Uses Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus 10-core processor suitable for everyday tasks The Flex keyboard is sold separately, adding significant cost ($319.99)
Base configuration includes 16GB RAM and 256GB storage 90-day warranty from Woot may be shorter than other warranties
Dedicated NPU to efficiently run Copilot+ and AI features No mention of battery life or performance benchmarks in the article
13-inch 2880 x 1920 touchscreen panel, versatile 2-in-1 tablet and laptop functionality Potentially expensive to fully equip when factoring in additional accessories
Currently available at a discounted price ($762.29), below previous all-time low price No detailed information on software experience or integration
Partnership with OEMs such as Lenovo, Samsung, HP implied, suggesting hardware collaboration and support No detailed user reviews or feedback included in the article

Source: https://9to5toys.com/2025/06/04/microsoft-most-affordable-surface-pro-copilot-pc-all-time-low/

As Microsoft's Windows 10 reaches the end, one of its partner's solution is to just buy a new Windows 11 Copilot+ PC

Key positive aspects of Copilot+ Key concerns related to Copilot+
Snapdragon X powered Copilot+ PCs are highly recommended for new Windows 11 laptops. Copilot+ PCs are relatively expensive, typically costing $500-$600 or more, which can be prohibitive for many users.
Microsoft and OEM partners (like ASUS) are actively promoting Copilot+ PCs to address Windows 10 end-of-life. Many existing PCs cannot upgrade to Windows 11 officially due to hardware requirements, forcing users toward buying new Copilot+ PCs.
Copilot+ PCs represent a modern hardware platform aligned with Windows 11 requirements. Pushing Copilot+ PCs as the primary solution glosses over economic realities and the root causes why people haven’t upgraded.
Promotion of Copilot+ PCs risks increasing electronic waste by encouraging disposal of otherwise usable machines.
The marketing strategy seems primarily business-driven rather than addressing user affordability and needs.
There is skepticism about whether Copilot+ PCs are a "must have" or just a marketing push without considering alternatives.
Microsoft is unlikely to promote other OS options that could keep older machines viable, limiting user choices.

Source: https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/windows-11/one-of-microsofts-biggest-hardware-partners-joins-its-bold-strategy-cotton-moment-over-upgrading-to-windows-11

Please tell us Reg: Why are AI PC sales slower than expected?

Key positive aspects of Copilot+ Key concerns related to Copilot+
Increasing adoption driven by next-gen product rollouts with many products now standard with an NPU integration. Slow demand due to lack of killer AI apps or software justifying higher investment.
Support from over 13,000 third-party suppliers to back Copilot and Copilot+ PCs. Commercial segment uncertainty about AI benefits, relevant apps, and permissible usage due to security concerns.
Major OEMs like Lenovo, HP, and Dell promoting their AI-enabled machines as part of their product portfolios. Price premium of 10-20% over regular PCs, impacting customer willingness to spend.
Lenovo planning to launch agentic AI features such as Action Assistant to automate multi-step tasks enhancing workflows. Economic uncertainty and slow recovery in European markets leading to cautious IT spending and delayed purchasing decisions.
HP expects AI PCs to comprise 25% of sales by year-end and forecast AI PCs will be 50% of its portfolio in two years. The ongoing tariff uncertainty and trade war effects increasing volatility and making AI PC buying riskier and more expensive.
More than 100 independent software vendors (ISVs) are beginning to introduce AI solutions leveraging AI PC capabilities. Lack of a current industry-wide standard for AI PC software compatibility creating risk and slowing adoption.
Dell is seeing some upgrade activity from installed base moving to newer Windows 11 AI PCs. Some organizations waiting for prices to drop and AI PC market conditions to clarify before investing.

Source: https://www.theregister.com/2025/06/04/aipcsales_analysis/

Woot’s PC blowout sale now live with up to 64% off! Copilot+ PCs, SSDs, and more from just $8

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://9to5toys.com/2025/06/04/woot-computers-sale-up-to-64-off-just-8/

Windows 11 news and updates: Here's everything we know about Microsoft's latest OS tweaks

Key positive aspects of Copilot+ Key concerns related to Copilot+
Copilot+ PCs are part of the push towards AI PCs, expected to become the norm with modern processors including NPUs as standard. Some Copilot+ PC features are still missing in the Canary Channel build, which delays access for certain users.
Copilot+ offers a collection of local tools powered by Copilot AI that can help streamline tedious tasks (e.g., Paint and Excel apps). Marketing for Microsoft's AI tools within Windows 11, including Copilot, has caused considerable confusion among users.
First wave of Copilot+ features is now accessible on most channels and production PCs, indicating steady rollout progress. There is an implied pressure or recommendation to upgrade hardware to use Copilot+ and Windows 11, causing uncertainty for users unable or unwilling to upgrade.
Supported by OEMs like Lenovo, Samsung, HP, and bundled on new laptops increases accessibility and adoption. Some features are better advertised than others, suggesting inconsistency in communication and feature visibility.

Source: https://www.windowscentral.com/news/live/windows-11-2025-june

KDE is ready for Windows 10 exiles, but there's a big issue that needs to be talked about more

This is not a Copilot+ review

Source: https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/windows-11/one-of-linuxs-big-hitters-declares-your-windows-10-pc-is-toast-and-one-angle-needs-talking-about-much-more