Microsoft Quietly Drops Copilot+ PC Branding on New Surface Laptops
Microsoft appears to be phasing out its Copilot+ PC branding, as new Surface machines meet the requirements but aren't marketed under the label.
Microsoft is seemingly ending its Copilot+ PC branding for Windows laptops, according to a report from Windows Central. The branding, introduced in 2024, was used to identify laptops that met specific hardware requirements for AI features, particularly around the neural processing unit (NPU).
In a conversation with executives from Microsoft and Qualcomm, Windows Central learned that the latest Surface machines are not being called Copilot+ PCs, even though they meet the previous requirements for Copilot+ devices. Surface CVP Brett Ostrum confirmed that the new machines are not branded as Copilot+ PCs but still satisfy the hardware criteria.
The move comes as Nvidia's RTX Spark push has not mentioned Copilot+ PC branding, suggesting a broader shift away from the label. Microsoft's Copilot+ PC branding was launched in 2024, but the associated Recall feature faced backlash, which may have contributed to the decision to drop the branding.
It remains unclear whether the Copilot Key, a dedicated keyboard button for launching Copilot, will be discontinued. Microsoft has not made an official announcement about the future of the branding or the key.
Quick answers
What is Copilot+ PC branding?
Copilot+ PC branding was introduced by Microsoft in 2024 to identify Windows laptops that meet certain hardware requirements for AI features, especially the NPU.
Are the new Surface machines Copilot+ PCs?
No, according to Surface CVP Brett Ostrum, the new Surface machines are not called Copilot+ PCs, but they do meet the previous requirements for Copilot+ devices.
Will the Copilot Key be discontinued?
It is unclear whether the Copilot Key will be discontinued.