Lenovo, the well-known brand famous for its ThinkPad business line of laptops, is reportedly developing its own AI-powered operating system to potentially rival Microsoft’s upcoming Windows 11 version 24H2. The company’s executive VP, Liu Jun, hinted at these plans during the recent CES 2024 event in Las Vegas. While specific details are scarce, Jun mentioned that the operating system would focus on multi-terminal products and AI PCs and personal agents.
Lenovo is set to release a range of AI-powered PCs in the first half of this year, which aligns neatly with its plans to ship an AI operating system. The objective behind this new operating system is to promote and enhance the development of the AI-powered PC ecosystem. It will also allow Lenovo’s AI hardware to reach new levels of advancement.
Apart from the AI-powered OS, Lenovo is also working on AI-embedded smart terminals that prioritize both privacy and security. These smart terminals will enable users to access AI technology without compromising their personal information.
While rumors circulated last year about Microsoft releasing a new version of its operating system named Windows 12, the company recently announced that it would be called Windows 11 version 24H2. This strategic move by Microsoft ensures that the Windows user base is not further fragmented and allows all Windows 11 users to easily access and download the update later this year.
Microsoft has been heavily incorporating AI technology across its products and services, and it is expected that the next major version of Windows will follow suit. However, Lenovo has the potential to challenge Microsoft’s Windows market share if it can make its AI-powered OS more compatible and accessible compared to Windows 11. Many users have expressed difficulty in upgrading to Windows 11 due to Microsoft’s strict system requirements and the strained PC market, resulting in Windows 10’s continued dominance.
Although Lenovo’s plans for the AI-powered OS remain unclear, this venture could prove lucrative if executed effectively. Microsoft continues to pressure Windows 10 users to upgrade to Windows 11, even utilizing full-screen multipage advertisements. Nevertheless, Google has recently presented its ChromeOS Flex OS solution, which will receive regular updates and allow users to continue using their existing devices beyond Windows 10’s cutoff date.
In conclusion, Lenovo’s development of an AI-powered operating system presents an exciting opportunity to challenge Microsoft’s dominance. With the right execution and friendlier system requirements, Lenovo might be able to secure a significant portion of the Windows market. However, the success of this venture will depend on how well Lenovo can differentiate and optimize its AI-powered OS compared to Windows 11 and other competing solutions.
