In a groundbreaking shift for the personal computing industry, Apple has emerged as the undisputed leader in the AI-capable PC market, accounting for a staggering 53% of global shipments in 2024, according to a recent report by Canalys. The tech giant’s success has been fueled by its revolutionary M4 chipset, which powers its latest MacBook Air and Pro models, cementing Apple’s reputation as a pioneer in integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into consumer hardware.
The Rise of AI-Capable PCs
AI-capable PCs, defined by their ability to run on-device AI applications efficiently, have become a critical battleground for tech companies. These devices rely on advanced neural processing units (NPUs) to handle tasks like real-time language translation, image generation, and predictive analytics without needing cloud-based servers. Apple’s M4 chip, featuring a 16-core Neural Engine capable of 38 trillion operations per second (TOPS), has set a new benchmark for performance, leaving competitors scrambling to catch up.
Canalys reports that global shipments of AI-ready PCs surged to 48 million units in 2024, with Apple shipping over 25 million units alone. This growth reflects a broader industry trend, as consumers and enterprises increasingly prioritize devices that support AI-driven workflows. “Apple’s early bet on silicon-designed AI acceleration has paid off tremendously,” said Canalys analyst Emma Lin. “Their vertical integration—combining hardware, software, and services—gives them an edge rivals can’t easily replicate.”
MacBook Air M4: The Game-Changer
At the heart of Apple’s dominance is the MacBook Air M4, a slim yet powerful laptop that has become a favorite among creatives, developers, and everyday users. Launched in March 2024, the device leverages the M4’s AI capabilities to enhance features like facial recognition, photo editing in apps like Pixelmator Pro, and even predictive text in Safari. For a deep dive into the MacBook Air M4’s specs and performance, read our comprehensive breakdown here.
The laptop’s popularity has also been buoyed by Apple’s ecosystem advantages. Seamless integration with iPhones, iPads, and AI-powered services like Siri 2.0—which now offers contextual suggestions based on user behavior—has created a sticky user experience.
Competition Struggles to Keep Pace
While Apple celebrates its lead, rivals like Microsoft, Dell, and HP are racing to develop competitive AI solutions. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite and Intel’s Lunar Lake chips promise improved NPU performance, but neither has matched the M4’s efficiency. Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC initiative, though ambitious, has faced delays, with partners like Lenovo and Asus only beginning to roll out devices in late 2024.
Analysts note that Apple’s control over its supply chain has also been a factor. By designing its chips in-house and partnering with TSMC for 3-nanometer manufacturing, the company avoided the production bottlenecks that plagued competitors reliant on third-party suppliers.
Where to Buy and What’s Next
For consumers eager to join the AI PC wave, the MacBook Air M4 remains a top-tier choice. It’s currently available on Amazon with exclusive holiday bundles, including discounted Apple Care+ plans.
Looking ahead, Apple shows no signs of slowing down. Rumors suggest a MacBook Pro M4 with an upgraded Neural Engine is slated for mid-2025, alongside new AI-focused software tools at WWDC. As the line between traditional computing and AI continues to blur, Apple’s early lead could reshape the industry for years to come—leaving competitors with a daunting challenge ahead.
Source: Canalys AI-Capable PC Shipment Report Q4 2024
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