What is an NPU? If you’ve been following the latest PC hardware launches, you’ve probably heard a new acronym popping up alongside CPU and GPU: NPU, or Neural Processing Unit. Both Intel and AMD are now integrating NPUs into their newest processors, and industry experts are calling them one of the most significant additions to the PC in decades. But what exactly is an NPU, and why should you consider it when planning your next build?
What is an NPU?
An NPU is a specialized processor designed to accelerate AI and machine learning workloads. While CPUs handle general computing and GPUs excel at parallel processing, NPUs are optimized for the unique mathematical operations that power modern AI applications—things like natural language processing, image recognition, and predictive modeling. Today’s NPUs are not separate components, but rather integrated into the processor alongside the CPU. They’re primarily intended to accelerate local AI processes and features rather than complex local AI models, though there is some application there too.
Intel’s Approach: Core Ultra with NPU
Intel’s Core Ultra processors were the first mainstream chips to include an integrated NPU. Named Intel AI Boost. Intel’s integrated NPU focuses on accelerating Windows AI features such as background blur in video calls, real-time transcription, and AI-powered tools in Office and Adobe Creative Cloud. The big advantage: these tasks run natively on the chip, instead of offloading to the cloud, saving bandwidth and improving responsiveness.
AMD’s Take: Ryzen AI
AMD has entered the NPU race with Ryzen AI, debuting in its Ryzen 9000 series desktop processors and mobile chips. Powered by the XDNA architecture (from AMD’s Xilinx acquisition), Ryzen AI emphasizes efficiency and flexibility, particularly for on-device generative AI tasks.
AMD is also closely aligned with Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC initiative, ensuring that Ryzen AI-equipped systems are optimized for AI-powered features across Windows and professional software suites. You’ll start to see more Copilot+ PCs this year and into 2026.
Comparison: Intel vs AMD NPUs
Here’s a side-by-side look at the current state of NPUs from the two major players:
| Feature | Intel Core Ultra (Meteor Lake / Lunar Lake) | AMD Ryzen AI (Ryzen 9000 Series) |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Dedicated NPU, integrated into CPU package | XDNA architecture (from Xilinx FPGA tech) |
| Target Use Cases | Windows AI features, video conferencing, productivity apps | Generative AI, content creation, professional workflows |
| Performance Focus | Balanced AI acceleration with strong power efficiency | Higher flexibility, optimized for AI inference |
| Ecosystem | Deep Microsoft integration; Adobe/Office AI features | Copilot+ PC compatibility; creative software optimizations |
| Form Factors | Mobile and desktop | Mobile and desktop |
Why You May Need an NPU in Your Next Build
An NPU isn’t just a gimmick—it’s becoming essential for modern PCs. Here’s why:
- Performance Efficiency – Frees the CPU/GPU for other workloads.
- Lower Power Usage – Runs AI tasks with less energy, extending battery life, reducing power draw.
- Future-Proofing – Major software vendors are baking AI into their applications. Systems without NPUs will feel dated sooner.
Final Thoughts
The inclusion of NPUs in both Intel and AMD processors marks a turning point for personal computing. Just as GPUs transformed how we handle graphics and later data computation with technologies like CUDA, NPUs will reshape how PCs process AI-driven tasks.
If you’re planning a new system in 2025, choosing a CPU with a dedicated NPU—whether Intel’s Core Ultra or AMD’s Ryzen AI—will help ensure your build is ready for the next wave of PC innovation. Get one in our gaming or workstation categories now.
VM Staff
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