The global market for artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled PCs witnessed significant growth in Q2 2024, as reported by market research firm Canalys. During this period, over 8.8 million AI-capable computers were shipped worldwide, with Apple’s Mac computers capturing a commanding 60% of the market share. This surge in AI PC adoption is expected to continue into the second half of 2024, driven by the launch of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X series chipsets, which are designed with Arm architecture and power the newly introduced Copilot+ PCs from various OEMs.
AI PC Market Growth in Q2 2024
According to Canalys, Apple’s Mac computers, equipped with the advanced M-series Silicon chipsets, led the AI PC market in Q2 2024. These Macs accounted for a substantial 60% of AI PC shipments, far outpacing Windows-based AI PCs, which made up just under 40% of the market. The dominance of Apple in this segment is attributed to its integration of AI-focused processors across all its current-generation computers, whereas many Windows PCs still rely on non-AI-centric processors.
Windows AI PC Shipments on the Rise
Despite Apple’s lead, the Windows AI PC segment experienced impressive growth, with a sequential increase of 127% in shipments. This growth was driven by the introduction of new AI-enhanced models from top OEMs. Lenovo, with its Yoga Slim and ThinkPad laptops, secured a 6% share of the AI PC market. Dell followed closely with a 7% market share, thanks to its Inspiron, XPS, and Latitude series. HP led the Windows AI PC segment with an 8% share, bolstered by the release of its EliteBook and Omnibook Copilot+ models.
Impact of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Series
The recent launch of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X series chipsets in June 2024 has set the stage for further expansion of the AI PC market. These chipsets, based on Arm architecture, offer superior performance and efficiency compared to traditional x86 processors. However, the late launch in Q2 meant there was limited time for OEMs to ramp up shipments of Snapdragon-powered AI PCs during this period. Nevertheless, OEMs have committed to integrating these chipsets into their upcoming product lines, which is expected to drive significant growth in AI PC shipments in the latter half of 2024.
Future Outlook for AI PC Market
With the foundation now firmly established, the AI-capable PC market is poised for continued growth in the coming months. Canalys’ Principal Analyst, Ishan Dutt, emphasized that the combination of powerful chipsets like Apple’s M-series and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X series will further accelerate the adoption of AI PCs, allowing users to fully leverage the AI capabilities of their hardware.
