Lenovo bets big on AI-powered laptops, eager to make localised, on-device AI PCs easily accessible

Lenovo is placing a massive bet on making AI a central component of its roadmap to entice new consumers. As part of a trend among PC manufacturers to embed increasingly sophisticated chatbots and assistants into their products, Lenovo aims to make 70 per cent of its devices AI-native within the next two to three years, according to Luca Rossi, President and EVP at Intelligent Devices Group (IDG), Lenovo. During a recent media briefing in Delhi, Rossi highlighted the significance of integrating AI into consumer devices, particularly in the premium space initially, with plans for broader integration across Lenovo’s product lineup in the future. Matthew Zielinski, Executive Vice President and President, International Markets, Lenovo, emphasized that AI capabilities will extend beyond personal assistants to encompass various applications such as photo editing. The push towards AI integration stems from the industry’s recognition that traditional hardware upgrades alone are no longer sufficient to captivate consumers. As a result, major tech companies like Microsoft are focusing on infusing AI capabilities into personal computers and smartphones at a core level. Microsoft’s Copilot, for example, demonstrates the potential of generative AI in creating human-like text and content with minimal human input. Lenovo, in alignment with this trend, is keen to market PCs equipped with native AI to consumers and businesses alike. Recognizing the evolving landscape, Lenovo is also investing in on-device AI features exclusive to its own PCs. For instance, Lenovo AI Now Personal Assistant allows users to control PC settings, search documents, and create meeting invitations using natural language commands. While these features will debut in China initially, plans for global expansion remain uncertain. Unlike some competitors who are considering subscription models or additional fees for AI features, Lenovo currently has no plans to charge users for on-device Gen AI features. However, industry observers anticipate diverse approaches among tech giants regarding monetizing AI capabilities, with companies like Samsung and Amazon exploring different strategies to offset ongoing AI model costs. As the industry progresses towards AI-driven computing, Lenovo’s strategic emphasis on AI integration reflects its commitment to innovation and staying ahead in an increasingly competitive market.