Windows 11 AI PC Requirements Explained – Full Guide 2026

Artificial intelligence is becoming a central part of the Windows computing experience, changing how users search for information, create content, manage files, improve video calls, and interact with their devices. In 2026, Microsoft’s approach to AI-powered computing spans standard Windows 11 devices with cloud-based intelligence, next-generation PCs equipped with dedicated neural processing units, and Copilot+ systems built to run These devices enable a broader range of AI functions to run locally, delivering more sophisticated on-device experiences without relying entirely on cloud processing.

Understanding Windows 11 AI PC requirements is essential before purchasing a new laptop, upgrading an existing computer, or deciding whether a current device can run Microsoft’s latest AI-powered features. Not every Windows 11 computer is an AI PC in the same sense, and meeting the minimum requirements for Windows 11 does not automatically qualify a device for every AI feature.

The key distinction is between running Windows 11, accessing AI services through applications or the cloud, and using specialized hardware to process AI workloads locally. These capabilities overlap, but they have different hardware requirements, compatibility considerations, and performance expectations.

This guide explains Windows 11 AI PC requirements for 2026, including processor specifications, RAM, storage, neural processing units, graphics capabilities, Copilot+ PC eligibility, security requirements, upgrade considerations, and the practical steps users can take to choose the right computer.

What Is the Difference Between a Windows 11 PC, an AI PC, and a Copilot+ PC?

A conventional Windows 11 computer is a device that satisfies Microsoft’s hardware specifications and supports software designed to run on the Windows operating system. Depending on its hardware, it may access AI-powered services through Microsoft Copilot, web browsers, productivity software, image-generation tools, and other applications that process requests using remote cloud servers.

These cloud-based AI features do not necessarily require a dedicated neural processing unit, commonly known as an NPU. A compatible processor, sufficient memory, a supported Windows version, and an internet connection may be enough for many online AI tasks, although application-specific requirements can vary.

An AI PC generally refers to a computer designed or marketed to support AI workloads through a combination of a CPU, GPU, and potentially a dedicated NPU. The term is used broadly across the computer industry, so it does not always indicate a single standardized hardware specification or guarantee compatibility with every Windows AI feature.

A Copilot+ PC is a more specific category of Windows computer defined by Microsoft’s hardware and compatibility requirements. These devices are designed to support advanced AI experiences that rely on capable on-device processing, including a qualifying NPU with at least 40 trillion operations per second, or 40 TOPS, alongside other platform requirements.

The practical difference is important for buyers. A regular Windows 11 PC may be perfectly suitable for browsing, office work, online AI assistants, and everyday productivity, while a Copilot+ PC is intended for additional experiences that require more substantial local AI processing capabilities.

Windows 11 AI PC Hardware Requirements in 2026

There is no single hardware checklist that applies to every AI feature available in Windows 11. The requirements depend on whether the user wants to run the operating system itself, use cloud-based AI services, run local AI models, or access features specifically reserved for Copilot+ PCs.

For general Windows 11 compatibility, Microsoft’s published baseline includes a compatible 64-bit processor or system on a chip with at least two cores and a supported 1 GHz clock speed, At least 4 GB of system memory and 64 GB of storage space are required.The device must also support UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability, TPM 2.0, and a DirectX 12-compatible graphics solution with a WDDM 2.0 driver.

These specifications represent the basic operating system requirements rather than recommended specifications for a modern AI-focused computer. A device that barely meets the Windows 11 minimum may struggle with demanding applications, multitasking, large AI models, or advanced creative workloads, particularly when memory and storage are limited.

For a more comfortable AI-capable Windows experience in 2026, buyers should consider a modern supported processor, at least 16 GB of RAM for general productivity, and an SSD with sufficient free capacity. Users who intend to run local language models, AI-assisted creative applications, or multiple demanding applications simultaneously may benefit from 32 GB or more of memory, depending on the software and model size.

Storage requirements also depend on the workload. Windows, applications, updates, personal files, and locally installed AI models can consume considerable space, so a 512 GB SSD is a practical starting point for many users, while a 1 TB SSD can provide more flexibility for creative professionals and users who store large datasets or AI model files locally.

Understanding the NPU Requirement: Why 40 TOPS Matters

A neural processing unit is a specialized processor designed to accelerate certain artificial intelligence workloads efficiently. Unlike a CPU, which handles a broad range of computing tasks, or a GPU, which excels at parallel processing and graphics-related workloads, an NPU is optimized for supported AI operations such as neural-network inference.

One of the most important specifications for Copilot+ PCs is NPU performance measured in TOPS, short for trillions of operations per second. Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC hardware criteria include an NPU capable of at least 40 TOPS, although the complete eligibility requirements also involve other hardware and software considerations.

The 40 TOPS figure should not be interpreted as a universal requirement for every AI application or every Windows 11 computer. Many cloud-based AI services perform most of their computation on remote infrastructure, while other applications use the CPU, GPU, or a combination of available processors.

An NPU can be particularly useful when compatible AI tasks run locally on the computer. Depending on the application, this can improve power efficiency, reduce dependence on an internet connection, support faster processing, and help keep certain data on the device rather than sending it to a remote service.

Still, an NPU’s processing capabilities are only one factor in determining a computer’s overall performance when running AI workloads. Memory capacity, memory bandwidth, software optimization, processor architecture, GPU capabilities, thermal design, and the specific AI model all influence real-world results.

When choosing a laptop, consumers should evaluate its actual hardware specifications and AI capabilities rather than relying solely on promotional labels like “AI-powered” or “AI-ready.” Checking the exact processor model, published NPU specifications, and explicit Copilot+ PC eligibility provides a more reliable way to determine which AI features a device can support.

Copilot+ PC Minimum Requirements: RAM, Storage, and Security

The Copilot+ PC category has stricter requirements than standard Windows 11 computers because it is designed to support more advanced AI features locally. In addition to a qualifying NPU with at least 40 TOPS of performance, Microsoft’s published requirements include at least 16 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage, together with a compatible processor platform and other security and device requirements.

The memory requirement matters because on-device AI models need working space for model data, intermediate calculations, operating system processes, and running applications. A computer with 16 GB of RAM can support a range of compatible AI experiences, but users working with large local models, extensive datasets, virtual machines, or demanding creative software may benefit from additional memory.

Storage capacity is another important consideration for Copilot+ PC buyers. A 256 GB drive meets the published minimum capacity requirement, but the actual amount of usable space is lower after Windows, applications, recovery files, and personal data are accounted for. Certain features may also require additional free space, so a larger SSD can provide a more practical long-term setup.

Security requirements are equally important because AI features may process sensitive personal or business information. Depending on the feature, users may need supported device encryption, Windows Hello authentication, or additional security capabilities. For example, Microsoft’s requirements for Recall include a qualifying Copilot+ PC, 16 GB of RAM, 256 GB of storage capacity, at least 50 GB of free space to enable the feature, and appropriate encryption and Windows Hello security settings. These are feature-specific requirements rather than universal conditions for using every AI application. provide further details.

Windows 11 AI PC Requirements at a Glance

The following comparison separates the official operating system baseline from practical hardware recommendations and Copilot+ PC eligibility requirements. This distinction helps buyers avoid confusing minimum specifications with the hardware needed for a responsive, modern AI workflow.

The practical AI PC targets in this table are recommendations, not additional official Windows 11 minimum requirements. Actual Copilot+ PC eligibility depends on the complete configuration, and a device should be verified against Microsoft’s current criteria before purchase. The official  are the primary references for checking eligibility.

Which Processors Qualify for Windows 11 AI Features?

Processor compatibility is more complicated than comparing clock speeds or counting CPU cores. Windows 11 requires a supported processor, while Copilot+ PC eligibility depends on a qualifying platform that combines compatible silicon, sufficient NPU performance, memory, storage, and other requirements.

Qualifying AI-focused platforms have been introduced across several processor families, including selected Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors, AMD Ryzen AI processors, and Intel Core Ultra processors. However, not every processor within these families necessarily qualifies, and the product name alone is not sufficient proof that a particular laptop meets all Copilot+ PC requirements.

When comparing Intel-based computers, buyers should check the exact Core Ultra model and its NPU capabilities rather than assuming that every Core Ultra-branded chip offers the same AI performance. The same principle applies to AMD Ryzen AI and Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, since capabilities and compatibility vary across individual models and device configurations.

Traditional Intel Core and AMD Ryzen computers without a qualifying NPU may still be suitable for cloud-based AI services, productivity software, and applications that use CPU or GPU processing. Their limitations generally relate to particular AI features or local-processing workloads rather than an inability to run Windows 11 or access AI services altogether.

For business buyers, processor selection should also account for application compatibility, battery life, enterprise management, virtualization, security features, and expected device lifespan. A qualifying NPU can be valuable, but the overall platform must still meet the organization’s performance, reliability, and support requirements.

RAM Requirements for AI PCs: Is 16 GB Enough?

RAM is one of the most important components to consider when buying an AI-ready computer. Windows 11 can technically run with 4 GB of memory, but this minimum leaves limited capacity for modern applications, multitasking, browser tabs, and AI-related workloads.

For general productivity, online AI assistants, office applications, video meetings, and light content creation, 16 GB is a sensible starting point for a new Windows 11 computer. It also aligns with the minimum memory requirement for Copilot+ PCs, making it a practical baseline for users who want access to Microsoft’s supported on-device AI experiences.

Users who regularly work with local language models, image-generation software, software development tools, large spreadsheets, or professional editing applications should consider 32 GB of RAM where their budget and device configuration allow it. Additional memory can reduce reliance on slower disk-based paging when applications and AI workloads compete for available resources.

For advanced local AI development, the ideal memory configuration depends on the size of the model, quantization method, context length, and software framework. Larger models can require substantial memory, and some workloads benefit more from GPU memory capacity and bandwidth than from system RAM alone.

Laptop buyers should also verify whether memory is upgradeable. Some modern thin-and-light systems use soldered memory, which means the installed capacity may not be expandable later. Selecting an appropriate memory configuration at purchase can therefore be more important than choosing a slightly faster processor.

Storage and SSD Requirements for Local AI Workloads

Storage is not simply a matter of meeting the minimum Windows 11 installation requirement. AI-focused computers may need space for operating system updates, application installations, local language models, image-generation models, project files, cached data, and backups.

A 512 GB SSD provides a reasonable balance for many everyday users who want Windows 11, office applications, development tools, and occasional AI experimentation. A 1 TB SSD may be a better choice for professionals who work with large creative projects, install multiple AI models, or prefer keeping substantial amounts of data on their computers.

An SSD is preferable to a traditional hard drive for the primary Windows installation because it generally provides faster application loading and file access. These improvements can make the computer feel more responsive, although SSD speed alone does not determine how quickly an AI model generates text or images.

Users who experiment with local AI tools should pay attention to the available free space after installing their preferred applications and models. Model downloads can occupy several gigabytes or substantially more, depending on the model and its configuration, while updates and cached files may increase storage consumption over time.

External SSDs and network storage can help manage large files, datasets, and archives. However, storing an AI model on an external drive does not remove the computer’s need for sufficient RAM, compatible processing hardware, and appropriate software support to run that model efficiently.

GPU vs. NPU: Which Is Better for AI Performance?

A graphics processing unit and a neural processing unit can both accelerate AI workloads, but they serve different purposes and are not interchangeable in every application. Understanding the difference helps buyers choose a Windows 11 computer that matches their intended use rather than focusing on a single hardware specification.

A GPU is designed to handle highly parallel operations and is widely used for gaming, video rendering, 3D applications, image generation, and many machine-learning workloads. A dedicated graphics card with sufficient video memory can be particularly useful for AI applications that support GPU acceleration, including local language models and image-generation software.

An NPU is designed to perform supported AI operations efficiently, often with lower power consumption than running equivalent workloads on a CPU or GPU. This can be beneficial for tasks such as background noise suppression, camera effects, supported language processing, and other AI features that have been optimized for NPU execution.

A CPU remains essential because it manages general-purpose processing, operating system activity, application logic, and tasks that are not delegated to specialized hardware. In practice, many AI applications distribute their workloads across the CPU, GPU, NPU, and system memory according to the software’s design and the hardware available.

For students, office workers, and frequent travelers, an efficient NPU-equipped laptop may provide an attractive combination of battery life and supported AI features. For researchers, developers, and creative professionals who run demanding local models, a powerful GPU with adequate video memory may be more important, although the best configuration depends on the specific workload.

The most suitable Windows 11 AI PC is therefore not necessarily the computer with the highest NPU TOPS rating or the largest graphics card. It is the system whose CPU, GPU, NPU, RAM, storage, cooling, and software compatibility collectively meet the user’s needs.

Windows 11 AI Features and Their Hardware Requirements

Windows 11 includes a growing collection of AI-powered capabilities, but their hardware requirements vary considerably. Some features work through online services, some use local processing, and others are restricted to supported Copilot+ PC configurations.

Microsoft Copilot provides AI assistance for tasks such as answering questions, summarizing information, and helping with writing or research. Depending on the experience, availability, and application, processing may take place in the cloud, so a dedicated NPU is not a universal requirement for accessing Copilot.

Windows Studio Effects can provide supported camera and microphone enhancements, such as background effects and noise reduction. Certain advanced effects use the NPU to improve efficiency, but feature availability depends on the computer’s hardware, drivers, Windows version, and the particular effect being used.

Live Captions and translation-related capabilities can also have specific compatibility requirements. Some experiences are available across a broader range of Windows devices, while certain advanced on-device translation features are associated with Copilot+ PCs. Supported languages, regional availability, and software updates can influence which functions a user can access.

Other Copilot+ PC experiences include Recall, Click to Do, enhanced Windows Search, image-generation tools in supported applications, and automatic super resolution in compatible scenarios. These features do not all have identical requirements, and their availability may change with Windows updates, regional rollout, and Microsoft’s evolving software support.

Buyers should verify the requirements for the particular feature they intend to use rather than assuming that all AI features are available on every AI-branded computer. Microsoft’s provides a useful starting point for checking supported experiences and eligible devices.

Can You Run AI on a Windows 11 PC Without an NPU?

Yes. A dedicated NPU is not essential for every form of AI computing on Windows 11. Many AI services operate through a web browser or an application that communicates with remote servers, allowing users to access sophisticated AI models without having a high-performance local AI processor.

Cloud-based AI can be practical for users who mainly generate text, summarize documents, translate content, brainstorm ideas, or ask questions through online assistants. The computer still needs to run the relevant application or browser smoothly, and an internet connection may be required for the service to function.

Local AI applications offer another route. Depending on the software, compatible models may run on a CPU, GPU, NPU, or a combination of these processors, although performance and model compatibility can vary significantly between configurations. A computer without an NPU may still run supported local models, but it may consume more power or perform certain workloads more slowly.

The main trade-offs involve performance, privacy, internet dependence, and operating costs. Cloud services can provide access to large models without requiring expensive local hardware, while local inference may offer greater control over stored data and offline operation when the chosen model and application support those capabilities.

However, local processing does not automatically guarantee privacy or eliminate internet use. Applications may still transmit telemetry, check licenses, download models, or use cloud services for particular functions, so users should review each application’s data-handling policies and settings.

Security and Firmware Requirements for AI PCs

Windows 11’s security baseline is important for AI PCs because these systems may process personal documents, business information, recorded meetings, and other sensitive content. Requirements such as TPM 2.0, UEFI firmware, and Secure Boot capability form part of the operating system’s platform-security foundation.

The Trusted Platform Module helps support security functions such as protected cryptographic operations and platform integrity measurements. Secure Boot helps prevent unauthorized boot software from loading during startup, while UEFI provides the modern firmware environment required for the supported Windows 11 configuration.

Additional security measures may apply to individual AI experiences. Depending on the feature, a device may require encryption, biometric authentication, Windows Hello, or a supported secured-core configuration. These requirements help protect access to sensitive information and reduce risks associated with unauthorized device access.

For organizations deploying AI PCs, security planning should extend beyond hardware specifications. Administrators should consider device management, identity controls, endpoint protection, software updates, data-loss prevention, access permissions, and policies governing which AI services employees can use.

Users should also distinguish between AI processing that happens locally and processing that takes place remotely. Local inference can reduce the need to send certain inputs to an external service, but the actual privacy benefits depend on the application’s implementation and how it handles information.

How to Check Whether Your Current PC Meets Windows 11 AI Requirements

Before buying a new computer, users should determine whether their existing system can support their intended AI workload. The process begins with checking the current hardware configuration and confirming that Windows 11 is properly installed and updated.

Open Settings > System > About to review the installed processor, system type, and RAM capacity. These details provide a basic picture of the computer’s capabilities, although the About page does not establish whether the device meets every Copilot+ PC requirement.

To inspect graphics hardware, open Task Manager and select the Performance tab. Depending on the computer and driver support, this page may display separate entries for the CPU, GPU, and NPU, allowing you to identify which processing components are present.

For a more detailed hardware report, open Device Manager and inspect the processor, display adapters, and any available neural processing hardware entries. Manufacturer specifications and official support documentation can help clarify the exact processor model and its supported AI capabilities.

Windows 11 compatibility should also be checked separately from AI eligibility. Microsoft’s PC Health Check app can help determine whether a computer meets the standard Windows 11 requirements, but a successful Windows 11 compatibility result does not mean that the computer qualifies as a Copilot+ PC.

If your goal is to use a particular feature such as Recall or an NPU-accelerated application, compare the device against that feature’s specific requirements. This avoids spending money on an upgrade that improves general performance but does not provide the hardware or software support needed for the desired AI experience.

How to Choose the Best Windows 11 AI PC in 2026

Choosing the right AI PC starts with identifying how you plan to use it over the next several years. A student who mainly uses web-based AI tools, a professional who works with large spreadsheets, a content creator who generates images, and a developer who runs local language models can have very different hardware needs.

For everyday productivity, online AI assistants, video conferencing, and office applications, a modern supported processor, 16 GB of RAM, and a 512 GB SSD make a sensible starting configuration. An NPU can improve efficiency for compatible workloads, but buyers who primarily use cloud-based services do not necessarily need to pay a premium for the most advanced local AI hardware.

For a business laptop, prioritize reliable performance, battery life, webcam and microphone quality, security features, and long-term manufacturer support. A Copilot+ PC may be worth considering if its on-device AI capabilities align with your workflow, especially when you regularly use supported local-processing features.

For creative professionals, software developers, and AI enthusiasts, evaluate the graphics processor, available video memory, system RAM, cooling system, and compatibility with your chosen applications. A dedicated GPU may provide more value than an NPU upgrade for certain demanding workloads, while an NPU-equipped platform can be attractive for mobile productivity and efficient background AI tasks.

For buyers planning to keep their computer for several years, additional memory and storage can provide useful flexibility as applications evolve. However, there is no guarantee that purchasing a computer with higher specifications today will automatically qualify it for every future AI feature, since compatibility can depend on the processor platform, security requirements, Windows version, and software support.

Can You Upgrade an Existing PC to Become an AI PC?

Upgrading an existing Windows 11 computer can improve its suitability for AI applications, but the options depend on the system’s design. Adding RAM, installing a larger SSD, or improving the graphics hardware may increase performance for supported workloads, provided that the motherboard, power supply, cooling system, and operating system support the upgrade.

A RAM upgrade can be particularly helpful if the computer frequently runs out of available memory when using browsers, productivity software, or local AI applications. An SSD upgrade can also make the system more practical for storing applications, datasets, and AI models, although neither upgrade creates a dedicated NPU.

Adding a dedicated graphics card may enable or improve GPU acceleration in compatible AI software on a desktop computer. Laptop upgrades are usually more limited, because the GPU and NPU are commonly integrated into the system’s processor platform or motherboard.

In most cases, a dedicated NPU cannot simply be added to an older computer through an ordinary memory or storage upgrade. Even if a system has a compatible processor, official Copilot+ PC eligibility depends on the complete device configuration and applicable requirements, not merely on whether an individual component has been upgraded.

If your existing PC is adequate for cloud-based AI and your everyday workload, replacing it solely to obtain an NPU may not be necessary. A new Copilot+ PC becomes more compelling when you specifically need supported on-device features, better battery efficiency under AI workloads, or a broader set of capabilities that your current hardware cannot provide.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying an AI PC

One frequent mistake is assuming that any computer advertised as an AI PC automatically qualifies as a Copilot+ PC. The broader AI PC label does not establish that the device meets Microsoft’s 40 TOPS NPU requirement or every other Copilot+ PC specification.

Another mistake is treating the Windows 11 minimum requirements as a recommended configuration for AI workloads. Although a system with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage may meet the operating system’s published baseline, that specification is not a sensible general target for a new computer intended for modern multitasking or demanding local AI applications.

Buyers should also avoid comparing processors solely by advertised TOPS figures. NPU TOPS, GPU compute performance, video memory, CPU performance, and application-specific acceleration are different measures, and the best configuration depends on the work being performed.

A further mistake is overlooking application compatibility and regional availability. Some AI features require a particular Windows version, supported processor, language, account configuration, or additional software, and availability can change as Microsoft releases updates.

Finally, do not assume that every AI feature operates offline or that all on-device AI processing is automatically private. Review the requirements and privacy settings of the services you intend to use, particularly when working with confidential business documents, personal information, or sensitive recordings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Windows 11 AI PC Requirements

Does Windows 11 require an NPU?

No. The standard Windows 11 minimum requirements do not universally require an NPU. A dedicated NPU is necessary for certain hardware-dependent AI experiences, including the advanced features associated with Copilot+ PC eligibility.

How many TOPS does a Windows 11 AI PC need?

There is no universal TOPS requirement for every AI PC. Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC criteria specify an NPU capable of at least 40 TOPS, while other Windows 11 computers can use cloud-based AI services or compatible CPU- and GPU-powered applications without meeting that threshold.

Is 8 GB of RAM enough for an AI PC?

Eight gigabytes of RAM may be adequate for basic computing and some cloud-based AI services, depending on the applications being used. However, 16 GB is a more practical starting point for a new AI-capable Windows 11 computer, and Copilot+ PCs require at least 16 GB of RAM.

Can a Windows 11 PC with Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 run AI?

Yes, provided the particular application supports the computer’s hardware and operating environment. Many Core i5 and Ryzen 5 systems can access online AI services and run compatible local AI software, but their Copilot+ PC eligibility depends on the exact processor platform and the complete device specifications.

Can a computer run Copilot without a 40 TOPS NPU?

Many Copilot experiences can be accessed on compatible Windows 11 computers without a 40 TOPS NPU. The 40 TOPS threshold applies to Copilot+ PC eligibility, not to every service or application carrying the Copilot name.

What is the minimum SSD size for a Copilot+ PC?

The published minimum storage capacity for a Copilot+ PC is 256 GB. However, users should consider a larger SSD if they intend to install many applications, download AI models, store substantial project files, or use features with additional free-space requirements.

Is a Copilot+ PC worth buying in 2026?

A Copilot+ PC can be worthwhile for users who want supported on-device AI features, efficient local processing, and a modern hardware platform. For people who mainly use online AI assistants and standard productivity applications, a less expensive Windows 11 PC may provide sufficient performance.

Can I make my current laptop a Copilot+ PC by upgrading its RAM?

No, not through a RAM upgrade alone. Copilot+ PC eligibility requires a qualifying NPU and compatible hardware platform, as well as the other applicable requirements. Increasing RAM may improve performance, but it cannot compensate for an unsupported processor platform.

Final Verdict: What Are the Windows 11 AI PC Requirements in 2026?

Windows 11 AI PC requirements depend on the type of AI experience you want to use. Standard Windows 11 computers can run many cloud-based AI services and compatible applications without a dedicated NPU, while advanced on-device AI experiences may require substantially more specialized hardware.

For general use, a modern supported processor, 16 GB of RAM, and a 512 GB SSD provide a practical starting point for a new AI-capable computer. Users who work with local language models, image generation, software development, or other demanding workloads should evaluate whether 32 GB or more of RAM and a capable GPU would offer additional benefits.

For users who specifically want a Copilot+ PC, the essential starting point is Microsoft’s qualifying hardware platform, an NPU rated at least 40 TOPS, at least 16 GB of RAM, and at least 256 GB of storage, together with the remaining device and software requirements. Verify the complete configuration before purchasing, since not every AI-branded laptop qualifies.

Ultimately, the best Windows 11 AI PC is the one that matches your applications, performance expectations, budget, privacy needs, and plans for future use. Understanding the difference between operating system compatibility, general AI acceleration, and Copilot+ PC eligibility makes it easier to choose a computer that delivers useful AI capabilities without paying for hardware you do not need.

Official Resources for Windows 11 AI PC Requirements

For the most reliable and up-to-date specifications, consult Microsoft’s official documentation before buying or upgrading a computer.

• Windows 11 System Requirements — Microsoft Support 

• Windows 11 Specifications and System Requirements — Microsoft 

• Copilot+ PCs and Compatible Devices — Microsoft 

• Copilot+ PC Developer Guidance — Microsoft Learn 

• Recall Feature and System Requirements — Microsoft Support 

These resources explain the official Windows 11 baseline, Copilot+ PC hardware criteria, supported AI experiences, and additional requirements for individual features. Because specifications and feature availability can evolve, use the latest published documentation when making a purchasing decision in 2026.