The Windows PC industry just caught a big break.After months of holding out, Apple has raised prices for its computers (and to address soaring memory and storage costs.Systems that seemed like bargains compared to ever-pricier Windows PCs, including the MacBook Neo, are now merely competitive.
That's no doubt a relief for Apple's rivals.However, they shouldn't use the price hikes as excuses to relax.If anything, this represents a prime opportunity to address deep-seated problems with Windows PCs — especially if rumors of a quick Apple M7 launch prove true.
Here's what Microsoft and partners need to do if they want to take advantage of Apple's weakness and stage a comeback.Microsoft: Do more to fix Windows 11 and Copilot Existing improvements aren't enough Microsoft has spent much of 2026 fixing and improving some of Windows 11's biggest annoyances, including the over-the-top presence of Copilot, surprise updates, and junk-laden content feeds.There's more taskbar and Start menu customization, as well as better overall performance.
But I'll be frank: the upgrades to date don't go far enough.Windows 11 still behaves like a marketing tool with Start menu ads enabled by default, a Discover feed that largely drives MSN traffic, and services like Copilot and OneDrive still making unwanted intrusions.That's not including unwanted third-party bundles like antivirus software.
Windows right now is a rental car — you can get used to it, but you don't own it.Microsoft needs to be bolder.Turn off Start menu promos altogether.
Demote the Discover feed.Further scale back Copilot's presence and even let people disable it without a complicated process.Apple has shown with macOS 27 Golden Gate that it's possible to incorporate AI and other in-house services while remembering that the OS exists to serve users first, not companies.
Microsoft can do the same in Windows 11.And there's nothing stopping Microsoft from going further, such as improving the quality of built-in apps like Notepad or finally modernizing settings tools like Device Manager.Windows should once again be a major selling point.
Otherwise, Microsoft and its allies still risk losing disaffected customers to Linux and the Mac.Windows PC makers still need to improve quality Early efforts are promising, but not a full fix PC manufacturers have delivered their first responses to the MacBook Neo, and some of them are promising.The new Dell XPS 13 is proof that premium build quality and a low price can coexist, for instance.
Others have at least updated their performance with Core Series 3 chips.There's still a lot of work left to do.It's still all too common to see budget Windows PCs (and even some mid-range models) with flimsy plastic cases, uninspired designs, and years-old processors that make the Neo's iPhone chip seem quick.
Why would I want a computer that feels like someone's leftovers? I'm sure more high-quality, low-price Windows machines are coming.Intel even launched a Project Firefly initiative this spring to raise the bar for budget laptops, using phone-like techniques to match the Neo's quality while keeping prices down.If all goes well, you'll see a steady stream of affordable Windows PCs that you'd be proud to own.
The key is consistency, including for desktops.The days of cheap-feeling, sluggish, and boring Windows PCs should be over for all brands and form factors.I shouldn't have to worry that my entry-level laptop will break, or that my no-frills desktop will struggle to keep up just a few years from now.
If those remain problems, Apple will still lure away those buyers who want more than mediocre hardware.Where are the true Windows AI PCs? Dedicated GPUs aren't the only answer As much as I criticize Microsoft for foisting Copilot on users, AI performance is still important.And right now, the Windows PC industry usually takes a brute force approach to speed: a monster GPU, a good-enough CPU, and as much RAM as possible.
While that method works, it usually results in a power-thirsty tower, or a laptop with fans so noisy it's almost ready for takeoff.Deals Save Big on Computers & Work Setup Deals Now Explore discounts on laptops, desktops, monitors, docks, storage, and networking gear to build a smarter Windows work setup.Find savings on performance upgrades, quiet cooling, power-efficient AI components, and ergonomic accessories — check current deals and offers to upgrade without overspending.
Deals Explore Computers & Work Setup Deals If AI PCs are going to be truly viable, we need better.Systems that are fast without ruining your electricity bill, or demanding a GPU that costs as much as your fridge.The unified, high-bandwidth memory that AI craves.
There's a good reason why Apple is selling out of Mac mini and Mac Studio desktops: they're disproportionately powerful for large language models (LLMs) thanks to their architecture and unified memory, but use a fraction of the power.Windows 11 Home What's included? Device encryption, find my device, firewall and network protection, internet protection, and more Brand Microsoft Upgrading the operating system for your PC can be simple with Windows 11 Home; it offers a simple, fast, and intuitive interface for ease of use.$139 at Microsoft Expand Collapse The dream PC is possible There are computers that fit the bill either now or in the future, such as the AMD Strix Halo-based Framework Desktop and the wave of laptops using Nvidia's RTX Spark.
They tend to be niche models that make Macs look like bargains, though.I want to see reasonably priced Windows PCs where hardware AI support involves more than an NPU and a Copilot key Until that's the case, you'll still see AI power users drift toward Macs and specialized workstations.
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