AI integration, high-performance monitors, cable-free builds, and innovative laptops
AI PCs and the development of smart computing :
The main theme of CES 2024 was the emergence of PCs based on artificial intelligence, and the leading company Intel announced the beginning of the “era of PCs with artificial intelligence.” While manufacturers are eager to embrace the idea of artificial intelligence, consumers need to distinguish truly revolutionary developments from simple marketing. The key player in this area is Intel’s 14th-generation Core Ultra processors, equipped with a neural processing unit (NPU) that can solve AI tasks while maintaining energy efficiency and outperforming specialized GPUs.
Although Windows AI features, such as the Studio Effects package for improving the webcam experience, require an NPU, various PC manufacturers find creative uses for them. For example, HP’s uses the NPU to offload video streaming tasks, allowing the GPU to focus on gaming. However, it’s important to note that high-end GPUs still outperform NPUin overall AI capabilities, and cloud-based AI applications may not use on-device processing. Some advertised AI features, such as Acer’s noise reduction, may be more evolutionary than revolutionary.
Development of high-performance monitors :
In 2024, the monitor industry will experience performance growthbased on the availability of OLED monitors in the previous year. LG and Asus have introduced 27-inch OLED monitors with 1440p resolution and an impressive 480Hz refresh rate, setting new standards for OLED displays. Samsung is also increasing the refresh rate of its QD-OLED panels, as exemplified by the Odyssey G8 (4K, 240 Hz) and Odyssey G6 (1440p, 360 Hz) models. Acer, in an effort to meet the needs of users who need extremely wide monitors, introduced the Z57 Mini-LED curved monitor-a 57-inch display that essentially combines two 4K monitors located next to each other. The high-end gaming monitor market in 2024 promises an abundance of choice for advanced consumers.
The cable war is gaining momentum :
In 2024, the “War on Cables” is gaining momentum, as computer hardware manufacturers take significant steps towards creating desktop systems without cables. At CES, Asus showed off the Back to the Future (BTF) concept, which involves connecting cables and power behind the motherboard, eliminating the need for traditional wiring. BTF motherboards equipped with an optional 600W PCIe connector allow you to connect video cards without external wires. A coalition of well-known enclosure manufacturers, including Cooler Master, Corsair, Inwin, Lian Li, Phanteks, Silverstone and Thermaltake, has announced its support for BTF by forming the BTF Alliance. MSI’s Project Zero motherboard uses a similar reverse mounting technique to hide data and power cables, contributing to the cableless revolution. In particular, Maingear plans to use a cable-less design in its Zero Drop and NV9 Zero Concept laptops.
Laptop Manufacturers are experimenting :
Among the sea of ordinary laptops, manufacturers are introducing experimental models to attract users. Lenovo’s ThinkBook Plusstands out for its 14-inch touchscreen, which loads into Android when disconnected, turning it into two different computers. Lenovo’s “Magic Bay” concept for the ThinkBook 13X and ThinkBook 16P allows users to attach various accessories to the magnetized port, offering a new approach to personalization. Asus, in order not to remain in the shadows,presented at CES a portable monitor with a folding screenandOLED laptop with two screens. Like Yoga 9i, introduced last year, the Asus laptop comes with a full keyboard and trackpad, and is priced at $1,500. These innovative approaches highlight the shift to more mobile and versatile laptops, with manufacturers striving to make a lasting impression on users.
Conclusion :
As the PC market continues to evolve, 2024 trends highlight the industry’s drive to push boundaries and explore new frontiers. Integrating artificial intelligence into everyday computing, improving high-performance monitors, relentlessly moving away from cables, and a wave of experimental laptop designs – the future of personal computing promises to be dynamic and exciting. PC enthusiasts can look forward to these trends shaping the user experience and driving innovation in the coming years.
