Artificial intelligence is moving from massive data centers to everyday devices, with AI-powered chips enhancing laptops, smartphones, and even cars. This shift to “edge AI” was a dominant theme at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025, which wrapped up on Friday in Las Vegas.
The event showcased a wave of personal computers and gadgets equipped with advanced AI processors, signaling a new era where these devices can perform complex tasks without relying on cloud connectivity.
The Rise of AI PCs
“AI PCs” stole the spotlight, boasting capabilities once reserved for data centers. “What was running in the cloud last year is running on the edge this year,” said Kamesh Medapalli, Senior VP of Innovation at Infineon Technologies.
This migration to edge computing means AI tools like chatbots and image generators, previously processed remotely, can now function directly on personal devices. Medapalli emphasized the benefits: “All your data is private and local—this is the future of edge AI.”
Nvidia Leads the Charge
Nvidia’s CEO, Jensen Huang, drew a celebrity crowd as he unveiled the company’s latest advancements, including the groundbreaking “Project DIGITS.” Dubbed a personal AI supercomputer, it equips researchers, data scientists, and students with the ability to fine-tune and operate large AI models on desktop systems.
“AI will be mainstream in every application for every industry,” Huang declared, adding that nearly all major computer manufacturers are preparing for the shift.
Transformative Potential
According to market research firm Canalys, AI-enabled PCs are expected to comprise 40% of all PC shipments this year, with that figure doubling by 2028. “The wider availability of AI-accelerating silicon in personal computing will be transformative,” said Canalys principal analyst Ishan Dutt.
These advancements promise to revolutionize user experiences by improving productivity, enabling device personalization, and enhancing energy efficiency—all while bolstering security and reducing AI operational costs.
AI on the Edge
The implications of edge AI extend beyond personal devices. Embedded processors will power AI capabilities in robots, surveillance systems, and automobiles. CES attendees were particularly drawn to Nvidia-powered products at the Gigabyte Technology booth.
“We’ve had overwhelming interest in our gaming laptops and graphics cards,” said Mia Qu of Gigabyte. “They’re perfect for gamers and professionals demanding high performance and large storage.”