Microsoft wants to transform Windows 11 into a platform capable of running artificial intelligence agents to perform tasks for users. The strategy combines local processing and cloud services to adapt the system to a new way of using computers.
Presented at a Windows and Surface devices event, the proposal also aims to attract developers and creators. However, the demonstrations still left doubts about the benefits for users who use computers for everyday activities.
The bet on AI agents and local processing aims to prepare Windows for a new way of using computers. – Image: Saulo Ferreira Angelo / Shutterstock
Less cloud, more local processing
The called hybrid intelligence allows combining AI models installed on the computer with cloud services. The idea is to execute certain tasks locally and reduce costs associated with external processing.
During the event, Microsoft showed GitHub Copilot performing programming tasks on the device itself. It also presented models that can run locally, agents such as OpenClaw, Hermes and Perplexity, and a deeper integration of Copilot into Windows.
The company's CEO, Satya Nadella, highlighted the change in perspective. "Today is the day we start talking and thinking about the edge ecosystem, perhaps with a bit different contours," he commented.
However, the demonstrations did not fully convince. There were no concrete examples of how local models can help those who do not develop AI systems. For now, Microsoft seems to be focusing efforts on winning over this specialized audience.
Surface Laptop Ultra targets developers
To attract professionals who need to run large models, the company introduced the Surface Laptop Ultra, equipped with Nvidia RTX Spark chips. The computer can run models with over 120 billion parameters locally.
We developed it for developers and creators who demand maximum performance and want portability with exceptional finishing.
Pavan Davuluri, executive responsible for Windows, during an event.
The price limits the reach of the machine. The Surface Laptop Ultra starts at $2,599 (around R$13,515), while some computers with RTX Spark can reach up to $6,999 (approximately R$36,395). Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo and MSI also offer equipment with this platform.
For those who work intensively with AI, the investment may be justified if it significantly reduces cloud processing costs. For the average consumer, it is more difficult to justify this cost without clear practical benefits.
Microsoft still needs to show how the new AI features can help those who do not work with technology. – Image: gguy/Shutterstock
Windows still needs to prove the value of AI
A potential new feature more useful for the general public is the reformulation of Windows 11 Search. The interface was redesigned to display results directly on the screen and function similarly to an app launcher.
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Microsoft's prior experience with AI helps explain the caution. The Copilot+ PCs, launched two years earlier, highlighted NPUs, chips that accelerate AI tasks. However, so far, few photography, video, and productivity tools have utilized these features. Recall, presented as one of the platform's major highlights, lost relevance after privacy concerns and launch delays.
Computers with RTX Spark may have more success among developers and creators, who have concrete reasons to run models locally. To reach a broader audience, these capabilities need to be brought to more accessible machines.
Microsoft also faces a shift beyond hardware. Agents run in the cloud, on Linux virtual machines, may expand compatibility with apps of this system. The company aims to maintain Windows' position in a scenario where the way computers are used is changing. To do this, he will need to show that AI agents offer real advantages, and not just more expensive computers for specialists.
Valdir Antonelli is a journalist with a specialization in digital marketing and consumer behavior.
