How AI PCs Can Empower SMBs to Scale Smarter and More Securely

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are the heartbeat of global innovation. They’re agile, resilient and often wear multiple hats to survive and thrive. In today’s ever-evolving environment, from rapid technological advancements to hybrid work, there’s increasing pressure to not only grow faster but also be smarter to stay competitive. That’s where AI-enabled technology, such as AI PCs, is beginning to make a difference, especially for SMBs.

Over the past two decades, I’ve worked closely with SMBs across diverse industries to help them scale through smarter infrastructure and devices. As AI transitions from a hype buzzword to a business necessity, it’s crucial that SMBs understand what AI PCs are and how they can use them to operate more efficiently, securely and with greater creativity.

What Are AI PCs and Why Should SMBs Pay Attention?

AI PCs are a new category of personal computers equipped with dedicated hardware, such as neural processing units (NPUs), allowing them to run advanced AI tasks locally and without needing constant cloud access. That means small businesses can perform tasks like real-time transcription, intelligent email summarization or predictive workflow suggestions directly on their device, but all in a secure and fast way.

However, this isn’t futuristic, wishful thinking – all of this is already happening. Industry analysts from Canalys projected that more than 100 million AI-capable PCs will be shipped globally this year, accounting for nearly 40% of total PC shipments. By 2028, shipments are forecasted to hit 205 million units, reflecting a 44% compound annual growth rate. For SMBs, this shift marks a new era of accessible AI tools, which will be delivered through the devices they already rely on every day.

5 Ways SMBs Can Use AI PCs to Support Growth

1. Automate Routine Workflows:

AI PCs help small teams do more with less. AI-enabled features like smart meeting notes, content generation and customer support scripts can save hours each week. These efficiencies allow business owners and employees to focus on strategic priorities, client relationships and innovation.

2. Improve Data Security:

Cyber threats remain a serious concern for small businesses, which often lack dedicated cybersecurity teams or typically have limited IT resources. New AI-driven security features, such as adaptive threat detection, biometric logins and firmware-level protections, can help SMBs reduce risk. Additionally, devices that enable on-device AI can keep sensitive data local, ultimately minimizing exposure to potential threats and other smart cyberattacks.

3. Drive Creativity and Differentiation:

SMBs thrive on ideas. AI PCs can even serve as creative partners or thought starters by generating marketing copy, visual concepts or product descriptions in seconds. For small teams in industries like retail, design or other services-oriented, this type of on-demand creative support is a powerful accelerator.

In fact, a 2024 survey by Sage revealed 69% of U.S. SMBs report that investing in technology has allowed them to spend more time on higher-value and creative tasks. Additionally, 61% noted that digital technology is essential for increasing revenue. This underscores how integrating AI tools can transform creative processes for SMBs to achieve more with less.

4. Empower a Hybrid Workforce:

The modern workforce is increasingly hybrid and multigenerational. AI PCs support this reality with features like intelligent noise cancellation, auto-adjusting camera and lighting for video calls and adaptive performance based on where and how the device is used. These tools help employees stay connected and productive in today’s work-from-anywhere model.

5. Scale on Flexible Terms:

Access to the latest tech doesn’t have to be costly or out of reach for SMBs. Many providers now offer device-as-a-service models by bundling hardware, software and support services into manageable monthly costs. This allows SMBs to tailor to their business needs and scale tech investments in line with business growth instead of bearing the burden of large expenses.

Final Thought: Making AI Work for Real Businesses

AI adoption doesn’t have to be complex or require a major overhaul of your business. It starts with simple, accessible tools like AI PCs that help automate, protect and empower your team. For SMBs looking to scale in a secure way, these devices offer a practical entry point into the AI era. The future of work is already here and SMBs deserve technology that works just as hard as they do.