Intel Core Ultra & Windows Copilot: What local AI can (and can’t) do

Here is a 174-word summary of the key points from the article: Microsoft's new Copilot+ device category requires laptops with a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU), 16GB RAM, and fast SSD. Intel's Core Ultra series meets these requirements, combining CPUs, GPUs, and a dedicated NPU optimized for AI inference tasks. The NPU enables local AI features like Recall (continuous screenshot logging), Live Captions (real-time speech-to-text transcription), and Paint Cocreator (text-to-image generation). These run directly on the device, without cloud processing, for fast response times and privacy. The Core Ultra's thermal and power management systems ensure efficient AI performance, even in mobile use. However, user control over the NPU is limited - it's managed automatically by Windows. Intel also offers vPro versions for enterprise, integrating security features and allowing IT visibility. Overall, Core Ultra devices provide a capable AI-accelerated platform, but with tradeoffs in customization and transparency compared to more open-ended AI development.