AI PCs: The Future That Needs More Time, Says Asus Co-CEO

Introduction: The Current State of AI PCs

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into personal computers marks a significant evolution in computing capabilities, yet it remains an emerging trend rather than a market revolution. As of now, the promise of AI-powered PCs to transform the laptop market is still on the horizon. Industry leaders such as Asus and Lenovo have generated much anticipation with their AI innovations, but substantial market penetration is not expected before 2026. This delay can largely be attributed to the current limitations in consumer adoption and pricing strategies impacted by tariffs [1](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-20/ai-pcs-still-year-or-two-from-fulfilling-promise-asus-ceo-says).

Despite the technological advances that AI PCs represent, they have yet to offer a game-changing user experience that justifies their higher cost to a broad audience. As a result, the market has responded cautiously, with many potential buyers calculating the tangible benefits against premium prices partly driven by tariffs and costly AI components [1](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-20/ai-pcs-still-year-or-two-from-fulfilling-promise-asus-ceo-says). The complex interplay of these factors suggests that while AI PCs are on the cusp of potentially redefining personal computing, they are not yet a staple in most households.

The initial excitement surrounding AI PCs revolved around their potential to breathe new life into a stagnant PC market through enhanced user experiences and automated functionalities. However, external factors such as global trade policies and economic uncertainties have further delayed their impact. Tariffs, in particular, threaten to elevate the cost structures, challenging the balance between innovation and affordability [1](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-20/ai-pcs-still-year-or-two-from-fulfilling-promise-asus-ceo-says). This has led companies to be wary about announcing firm pricing or making expansive strategic commitments.

As the industry eyes the future, the anticipation is that the maturation of software ecosystems and the resolution of trade tensions will catalyze more rapid integration and acceptance of AI capabilities in personal computers. Until then, however, the AI PC segment embodies both the promise and perils of cutting-edge technology in a global marketplace characterized by its uncertainties. Asus and other key players remain at the forefront, balancing innovation with economic realities as they chart a path through this evolving landscape [1](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-20/ai-pcs-still-year-or-two-from-fulfilling-promise-asus-ceo-says).

The Promise and Challenges of AI in the Laptop Market

The integration of AI technology within the laptop market carries both tremendous potential and several considerable challenges. At its core, AI in laptops promises to usher in a new era of enhanced performance and user experience. This technological leap is anticipated by companies like Asus and Lenovo, who have spearheaded initiatives to bring AI capabilities to their product lines. However, despite the excitement and initial rollout, the actual market impact of AI-powered PCs might take longer than expected. Experts suggest that the real transformative effect of AI laptops may not be felt until 2026 or beyond, as noted by Asus co-CEO Samson Hu in a recent discussion.

One of the principal promises of AI in laptops is the potential to revitalize a stagnant market with innovative features that previous models simply could not offer. Enhanced automation, improved security, and the ability to personalize user experiences are among the capabilities that AI promises to deliver. However, realizing these benefits requires a robust and mature software ecosystem, as well as consumer willingness to adopt such innovations. The anticipation is that as AI technology becomes more deeply embedded into the computing experience, user routines will be optimized, leading to heightened productivity and creativity. Yet, the journey to convince consumers of these advantages has been sluggish, with many questioning whether the current AI offerings justify the increased costs, as highlighted by industry insiders.

Challenges facing the adoption of AI in laptops extend beyond technology to economic and geopolitical realms. For instance, the introduction of tariffs by the US government has posed additional hurdles. These tariffs are likely to increase the price of laptops, potentially by as much as 10% in the US, according to Asus. This could dampen consumer interest and slow down the integration process of AI technology within mainstream computing devices. Furthermore, tariffs and trade tensions contribute to market uncertainties that could hinder investor confidence and impact companies’ strategic planning significantly. Therefore, while AI does hold the promise of revolutionizing the laptop industry, these external economic factors remain a significant barrier to quick and widespread adoption.

The future of AI in the laptop market will depend heavily on overcoming the hurdles of cost, development, and public perception. For consumers to experience the full spectrum of benefits, developers need to focus on creating applications that leverage AI to improve day-to-day computing needs effectively. This includes optimizing everything from casual use to professional environments, where AI-enhanced laptops could drastically improve workflow efficiency. Meanwhile, companies must navigate the geopolitical landscape delicately, balancing innovation with international trade policies. With Gartner predicting that AI PCs could account for 43% of all shipments by 2025, as noted in their analytical forecasts, the anticipation around AI's role in laptops remains high. Still, it is imperative that both consumers and companies adapt to this evolving technology landscape carefully.

Market Expectations vs. Reality: Why AI PCs Aren't Taking Off Yet

In the dynamic world of technology, expectations around AI-powered PCs seemed boundless, with many industry insiders predicting a revolution in user experience and market growth. However, the reality, as it stands today, paints a different picture—one of slower-than-expected adoption and market penetration. Industry leaders like Asus co-CEO Samson Hu have openly acknowledged that the anticipated impact of AI PCs is still a few years away from being realized according to his statements outlined in Bloomberg. His insights suggest that the technological capabilities of current AI PCs have not yet translated into sufficient consumer value to justify their premium pricing, dampening what was initially a euphoric market reception.

The initial hopes for AI PCs were high: to breathe new life into the laptop market by leveraging AI to offer enhancements such as sophisticated automation, improved security features, and personalized computing experiences. Companies like Asus and Lenovo led the charge, envisioning a rapid transformation in how PCs were used and perceived. Yet, despite strategic efforts, broad market adoption has lagged. Part of the challenge is attributed to the nascent stage of software development, which has yet to fully capitalize on advanced AI hardware, causing a lag in the overall experience and perceived value as highlighted by Bloomberg.

Another layer to this complex situation is the economic pressure exerted by tariffs, which, as reported by Asus, have contributed to potential price hikes—up to 10% in the US market. This not only affects consumer demand but also challenges the economic scalability of AI PCs. The implications of these tariffs, discussed in a Bloomberg report, reveal the intersections of global trade policies and tech innovation, further complicating the market dynamics.

Despite the current hurdles, there is cautious optimism among some industry experts about the future of AI PCs. Gartner’s forecast paints a more promising picture, suggesting that by 2025, nearly half of all PC shipments could be AI-powered, which could shift significantly more by 2026, as noted by The Register. This optimism is balanced by the reality that realizing such potential will require not only overcoming technical and market challenges but also addressing pricing strategies to make AI PCs more accessible to a wider audience.

The discrepancy between expectations and current reality in the AI PC market illustrates a broader lesson within technology sectors: the journey from innovative hype to market mainstreaming is rarely straightforward or quick. While companies like Asus and Lenovo remain committed to riding out the current obstacles, the timeline for AI PCs to achieve widespread adoption appears more extended than initially hoped. As outlined by Bloomberg, this reality is a testament to the complexity of integrating cutting-edge technology into existing consumer habits and economic frameworks.

Implications of Tariffs on AI PC Pricing and Adoption

In an increasingly globalized economy, the implications of tariffs on AI PC pricing and adoption are multifaceted, affecting not only the technology sector but the broader economic ecosystem. Tariffs, largely imposed as a result of geopolitical tensions, add an additional layer of complexity to the already challenging market for AI PCs. The imposition of tariffs can significantly increase the production costs for companies such as Asus and Lenovo, which are at the forefront of AI PC innovation. These increased costs are often passed down to consumers, resulting in higher retail prices. According to Asus co-CEO Samson Hu, tariffs could lead to a price hike of up to 10% on AI PCs in the US. Such price increases may dampen consumer demand, which is already lukewarm due to the nascent state of AI features in these PCs [source](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-20/ai-pcs-still-year-or-two-from-fulfilling-promise-asus-ceo-says).

The economic implications are profound. With PC shipments having surged by 6.7% earlier in 2025 due to concerns over impending US tariffs and the phase-out of Windows 10, the market's dynamism is clear. Yet, tariffs threaten to stall this momentum by increasing uncertainty and hesitancy among manufacturers and retailers to commit to production and distribution plans. Companies like Dell, HP, and Lenovo have already experienced shipment halts and pricing uncertainties due to potential tariffs of up to 245% on goods from China [source](https://www.tomsguide.com/computing/i-asked-companies-for-prices-of-their-new-tech-at-computex-2025-but-theyre-too-tariff-ied-to-tell-me). This climate of uncertainty may ultimately lead to slower growth in the PC market, affecting everything from consumer spending to stock valuations and beyond.

The social implications of tariffs on AI PCs are equally significant. As prices rise, the digital divide could widen, making it more challenging for underprivileged communities to access emerging technologies. This disparity is compounded by the slower development of AI software, which limits the potential benefits these technologies can offer to users. Although some users express skepticism about the tangible benefits of AI PCs due to their high cost and limited advanced functionalities, others hope that future enhancements could make these devices worthwhile investments [source](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-20/ai-pcs-still-year-or-two-from-fulfilling-promise-asus-ceo-says).

Politically, tariffs have become a contentious issue, highlighting the ongoing tensions between major trading nations. These trade policies not only influence economic relationships but also affect strategic technological advancements. As tariff-induced market disruptions continue to shape the global supply chain, governments might have to reassess their strategies for promoting AI adoption and managing trade disputes. This environment of uncertainty can steer investment decisions and potentially impact the competitiveness of tech companies worldwide, specifically those in the US [source](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-20/ai-pcs-still-year-or-two-from-fulfilling-promise-asus-ceo-says).

In conclusion, while AI PCs hold tremendous potential to revolutionize personal computing with capabilities such as enhanced automation and personalized user experiences, the current tariff landscape poses a significant barrier to their widespread adoption. Companies and policymakers alike must navigate these complex economic and political realities to harness the full potential of AI PCs. The ongoing development and integration of AI in PCs will require not only technological innovation but also strategic action to address these broader challenges [source](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-20/ai-pcs-still-year-or-two-from-fulfilling-promise-asus-ceo-says).

Comparative Analysis: Asus, Lenovo, and Other Players in the AI PC Market

In the rapidly evolving world of personal computing, AI PCs are positioned at the forefront of technological innovation, with major players like Asus and Lenovo shaping the landscape. Despite the excitement, Asus co-CEO Samson Hu has indicated that the transformative impact of AI PCs might not be realized until 2026 or beyond. This delay is largely attributed to slower consumer adoption rates as current AI capabilities in PCs have not yet delivered a sufficiently enhanced user experience to justify the increased costs [1](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-20/ai-pcs-still-year-or-two-from-fulfilling-promise-asus-ceo-says).

Both Asus and Lenovo have been leading efforts to incorporate AI into personal computers, though the market remains cautious. With potential price hikes due to US tariffs, consumer reluctance could be exacerbated, presenting further challenges for these companies. The new trade policies, although not specified in detail, are expected to inflate production costs in the US, impacting the pricing and market strategies of key players [1](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-20/ai-pcs-still-year-or-two-from-fulfilling-promise-asus-ceo-says).

Lenovo, like its competitors such as Acer, Dell, HP, and MSI, is actively pursuing AI innovation. Intel's recent push for AI capabilities, which focus on enhancing areas such as automation and gaming optimization, reflects industry-wide efforts to redefine personal computing [1](https://newsroom.intel.com/opinion/five-smart-things-ai-pcs-can-do). However, the promise of AI PCs driving market growth hinges on overcoming hardware costs and developing more sophisticated software functionalities.

Analysts offer mixed forecasts on the AI PC market's trajectory. Gartner's anticipations reveal that AI PCs could dominate by taking a significant share of all PC shipments by 2025. Yet, contrasting views suggest this may not materialize swiftly, as initial consumer feedback shows skepticism over current AI functionalities relative to cost [3](https://www.theregister.com/2024/09/25/analysts_ai_pcs_shipments_gartner/).

Public perception remains pivotal. There is a prevalent notion that the term 'AI PC' is often used as a marketing gimmick rather than a real technological breakthrough. This skepticism is fueled by high costs and minimal perceptible advancements in user experience compared to traditional PCs [7](https://www.tomshardware.com/news/asus-ai-pcs-coming-in-2024). Nevertheless, with potential applications in personalized education and enhanced gaming, AI PCs retain a pool of optimistic customers looking forward to future utilizations.

Expert Opinions: A Long Road Ahead for AI PCs

The journey towards integrating AI into personal computers seems to be a long and winding one. Prominent voices in the tech industry, such as Asus co-CEO Samson Hu, predict that the dream of AI-powered PCs fully reshaping the laptop market remains a distant prospect [1](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-20/ai-pcs-still-year-or-two-from-fulfilling-promise-asus-ceo-says). Hu's evaluation aligns with current market dynamics, where consumer adoption hasn't met initial expectations. "Our efforts to blend AI capabilities into PCs haven't yet struck the chord we anticipated," Hu remarked, emphasizing the challenges faced by manufacturers like Asus in amplifying consumer appeal.

The initial optimism that AI PCs would rejuvenate the stagnating laptop market has been tempered by several factors. Despite the advanced features promised by AI integration — such as enhanced user engagement and improved system intuitiveness — the price of both hardware and software development presents significant hurdles [1](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-20/ai-pcs-still-year-or-two-from-fulfilling-promise-asus-ceo-says). The ongoing tariff issues between global superpowers further complicate the landscape, potentially increasing costs for both manufacturers and consumers alike, which could suppress the predicted growth wave even more.

But not all industry analysts share Hu's cautious outlook. Firms like Gartner foresee a more accelerated adoption curve, indicating that AI-powered PCs may capture nearly half of all PC shipments by 2025 [3](https://www.theregister.com/2024/09/25/analysts_ai_pcs_shipments_gartner/). This optimistic scenario suggests that as technologies advance and costs decrease, more consumers and enterprises will likely start embracing AI capabilities for diverse uses, from automation and gaming to personalized education tools.

The discrepancy in predictions highlights a broader uncertainty in the tech industry. As Hu points out, the challenge lies not only in hardware advancements but also in software innovation that can leverage AI in PCs effectively [5](https://www.communicationstoday.co.in/ai-powered-pcs-wont-drive-market-growth-until-2026-asus-co-ceo/). Until the software ecosystem catches up, consumers might remain hesitant to pay premium prices for technology that doesn't yet deliver transformative experiences.

Additionally, economic and political factors are pertinent. With potential tariff-induced price hikes looming, the attractiveness of AI PCs could diminish further. Political tensions, especially concerning trade policies between major economies, may not only affect pricing but also slow down innovation drives, impacting the pace at which AI PCs are both developed and adopted [3](https://www.tomsguide.com/computing/i-asked-companies-for-prices-of-their-new-tech-at-computex-2025-but-theyre-too-tariff-ied-to-tell-me). Thus, while experts and companies navigate these complexities, the AI PC revolution remains a work in progress.

Public Perception: Skepticism and Hope Surrounding AI PCs

AI PCs have sparked both skepticism and hope among the public, reflecting a complex interplay of expectations and realities. On one hand, there is a sense of doubt accompanying the anticipated technological leap. Consumers are questioning whether the current AI capabilities justify the premium pricing, often perceiving the term 'AI PC' as a clever marketing label rather than a genuine enhancement. These sentiments are echoed in a Bloomberg article, which emphasizes that consumer adoption has been slow due to the lack of noticeable improvements in user experience, thus not compelling enough to warrant the higher cost.

Nevertheless, there exists an undercurrent of optimism regarding AI PCs. Enthusiasts and industry observers envision a future where advancements in AI could significantly enhance user interactions. As development progresses, these devices are expected to offer more compelling applications. According to news coverage by Tom's Hardware, users anticipate that with the maturation of supporting software, AI PCs will indeed fulfill their promise by delivering valuable and innovative functionalities that could justify the initial investment.

Compounding the dilemma is the economic landscape influenced by tariffs, further complicating the public's perception. The potential increase in prices due to tariffs may amplify consumer apprehension, as highlighted by industry experts at Bloomberg, who project a potential price hike of 5-10% in the US. Such financial burdens may deter those considering an upgrade, especially if tangible benefits remain elusive, thereby hindering market penetration.

Further, the mixed messages from the industry contribute to the ambiguous public sentiment. Extensive coverage from sources such as Markets and Markets reveals that while some experts foresee slow adoption until technological and software advancements are realized, others predict rapid market growth. Gartner, for example, anticipates that AI PCs will dominate shipments by the mid-2020s. This dichotomy fosters uncertainty among potential buyers, who are left weighing a spectrum of expert opinions and market forecasts.

To navigate these complex reactions, companies like Asus and Lenovo are tasked with not only enhancing the technical capabilities of AI PCs but also communicating clear, tangible benefits to consumers. As reported by Bloomberg, achieving a balance between innovation, pricing, and marketing will be critical to transforming skepticism into trust and curiosity into commitment. With strategic efforts, the potential for AI PCs to revolutionize the industry remains within reach, sparking hope for a future where technology seamlessly integrates into everyday life.

Economic, Social, and Political Implications of Slower AI PC Adoption

The adoption of AI-powered PCs is experiencing a slower trajectory than anticipated, leading to significant economic implications. Industry experts, such as Asus co-CEO Samson Hu, project that the market influence of AI PCs will not be substantial until 2026 or later. This delay is influenced by lower consumer adoption rates, driven primarily by the current AI capabilities in PCs, which have not enhanced the user experience enough to justify the higher costs. Furthermore, increased prices, exacerbated by US tariffs, are anticipated to add an additional 5-10% to PC costs, potentially curbing consumer demand and impacting manufacturer profits. These economic factors may see the PC market adopting a more modest growth trajectory, flattening at 1-2%, rather than the initially projected 5% growth. This stagnation suggests a postponement in harnessing the full economic benefits, such as productivity gains and innovation, that AI PCs were expected to drive across sectors. [Source](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-20/ai-pcs-still-year-or-two-from-fulfilling-promise-asus-ceo-says).

Socially, the lag in AI PC adoption may have broader consequences on digital transformation efforts. The potential for tariffs to increase prices could exacerbate the digital divide, affecting economically disadvantaged groups who may find AI PCs financially inaccessible. An immature software ecosystem surrounding AI PCs could also lead to user dissatisfaction, limiting the devices' social impact and adoption. These factors can slow down the anticipated pace of digital transformation, making it less equitable and more uneven. This delayed integration into social sectors could mean a slower adaptation to new, beneficial technologies and a persistence of existing disparities. [Source](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-20/ai-pcs-still-year-or-two-from-fulfilling-promise-asus-ceo-says).

Politically, the hesitancy in AI PC adoption highlights existing tensions and uncertainties surrounding global trade policies. The ongoing trade policy tensions between the US and other countries, exemplified by tariff policies, present significant roadblocks not only in the tech industry but across various economic sectors. This uncertainty can influence investment decisions, impacting the competitiveness of US tech companies on a global scale. Furthermore, the delay in AI PC adoption may compel governments to reconsider their AI strategies, focusing on how these tech advancements are integrated and supported amidst ongoing trade disputes. Despite these challenges, continued advancements and strategic policymaking could still drive future AI-PC innovations and developments. [Source](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-20/ai-pcs-still-year-or-two-from-fulfilling-promise-asus-ceo-says).

Concluding Thoughts: What's Next for AI PCs

The dawn of AI PCs has been met with both anticipation and caution, as the industry and consumers alike ponder their potential. According to Asus co-CEO Samson Hu, while AI-powered PCs promise revolutionary enhancements, the market will likely not see substantial effects until 2026 or beyond. This delay is attributed to current AI functionalities not providing enough of an enhancement to justify the high costs [1](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-20/ai-pcs-still-year-or-two-from-fulfilling-promise-asus-ceo-says). The slow adoption is exacerbated by economic factors such as tariffs, which not only inflate the cost of these novel devices but also add uncertainty to their market trajectory.