Microsoft has unveiled a new type of virtual machine called the Windows 365 AI-enabled Cloud PC. This new offering is not equipped with a neural processing unit (NPU), but is tailored for AI applications, offering scalable performance across certain Azure regions under the Windows 365 service.

Previously, Microsoft introduced the ‘Copilot+ PC’ to describe machines optimized for its Copilot AI, characterized by their high NPU performance. Despite lacking an NPU, the new Cloud PCs rely on configurations like the 8 vCPU setup, some with GPU accelerators, making them ideal for demanding AI tasks.

These cloud PCs dynamically adjust their computational power for optimal performance, while being securely streamed from Microsoft’s cloud. In addition to standard features, they include tools such as Copilot and advanced Windows Search functions infused with AI technology.

Aimed primarily at enterprises deploying AI agents, Microsoft has also launched ‘Windows 365 for Agents,’ offering policy-controlled, cloud-based environments for automated processes.

Currently, these AI-enabled Cloud PCs are available to Windows Insider members enrolled in the ‘Frontier Program,’ which focuses on AI innovation and development.

These developments are part of Microsoft’s strategy to expand its virtual desktop offerings, including Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD), allowing companies to customize their work environments on-premises or in hybrid clouds.