When Qualcomm launched its Snapdragon X Series processors for Windows laptops, the company promised energy efficiency, long battery life, and advanced AI capabilities. However, early sales were underwhelming. By Q3 2024, only 720,000 Snapdragon-powered PCs had been sold globally, representing just 0.8% of total PC sales and 1.5% of all Windows laptops.
The slow start was due to several factors. App compatibility issues and doubts about ARM-based processors on Windows limited consumer interest. Competing against established players like Intel and AMD also proved challenging. Qualcomm’s focus on premium devices priced above $800 added to the difficulty in gaining widespread adoption.
Despite these initial struggles, Snapdragon-powered PCs began to gain momentum by the end of 2024. Qualcomm reported that its laptops captured over 10% of the U.S. retail market for Windows devices priced above $800 in December 2024. This marked a significant shift and highlighted the growing interest in these devices.
What changed?
One major driver of this growth was the integration of Microsoft’s Copilot+ feature into Snapdragon-powered laptops. Copilot+, an AI-powered assistant built into Windows 11, performs best on devices with dedicated AI hardware like Qualcomm’s neural processing units (NPUs).
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This optimisation gave Snapdragon laptops a clear advantage in delivering smooth AI experiences. Qualcomm also addressed one of its early weaknesses: app compatibility. By late 2024, Snapdragon-native apps included over 20 popular VPNs, 50 leading security and cloud storage tools, and new software for creators.
This made these devices more practical and appealing to a wider audience. The company’s focus on premium laptops also began to pay off. Devices like the Surface Laptop 7 and ASUS Zenbook A14 showcased the strengths of Snapdragon processors including long battery life, efficient performance, and seamless AI integration leading to positive reviews from users and critics alike.
The growing role of AI in PCs
Qualcomm’s success is part of a larger trend in the PC market: the rise of AI-enabled laptops. In Q3 2024 alone, shipments of AI-capable PCs reached 13.3 million units, accounting for 20% of all PC sales during that period. Analysts predict that by the end of 2025, more than half of all laptops priced above $800 will feature dedicated AI capabilities.
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This shift reflects growing demand for smarter devices that can boost productivity and personalise user experiences. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Series chips are well-suited to meet this demand thanks to their strong AI performance and energy efficiency.
Looking ahead: Expanding horizons
Building on its recent success, Qualcomm is now looking to expand into more affordable segments. At CES 2025, the company unveiled its latest Snapdragon X processor designed for laptops priced under $600.
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Qualcomm has already secured over 80 designs across its X Series processors, with more than 100 devices expected to launch by 2026. This growing portfolio signals increasing confidence from manufacturers like Microsoft, ASUS, and Lenovo in Snapdragon-powered PCs.
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Sagar Sharma
A software engineer who happens to love testing computers and sometimes they crash. While reviving his crashed system, you can find him reading literature, manga, or watering plants. View Full Profile
