Microsoft Updates Windows 11 Processor Requirements for Copilot+ AI PCs
Earlier this year, Microsoft quietly updated its Windows 11 minimum system requirements page , clarifying what users need to look for in a processor if they’re aiming to run Copilot+ AI features .
The update comes as part of Microsoft’s push toward the new generation of AI-powered PCs , known as Copilot+ PCs — systems designed specifically to handle on-device artificial intelligence tasks like real-time translation, content creation, and more.
While the baseline requirements for Windows 11 remain unchanged , Microsoft has introduced a new set of specs tailored for Copilot+ devices. These include:
- NPU with at least 40 TOPS performance : A dedicated Neural Processing Unit is required to efficiently handle AI workloads.
- Minimum 16 GB RAM (DDR5/LPDDR5)
- 256 GB fast storage (SSD or UFS)
Which Processors Qualify?
Microsoft now lists supported CPUs from all three major chipmakers:
- AMD Ryzen AI 300 series
- Intel Core Ultra 200V series
- Qualcomm Snapdragon X series
This marks a shift from last year, when only Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chips met the NPU requirement. Now, AMD and Intel have joined the race with their latest processors.
The company also added direct links to compatible CPUs from each manufacturer, making it easier for users to identify whether their hardware qualifies for Copilot+ experiences.
In addition to the CPU changes, Microsoft recently updated its guidelines around USB-C support , further improving compatibility and future-proofing Windows 11 for modern devices.
