Intel claims retailers are facing high return rates for Snapdragon PCs, Qualcomm denies it

Key Takeaway: Arm-based PCs are gaining momentum in the market, with promises of improved battery life driving their growth. Intel is also adapting to meet changing market demands.

The PC market is experiencing a shift as Arm-based processors challenge the traditional x86 architecture. However, this transition comes with challenges, as highlighted by Michelle Johnston Holthaus, interim co-CEO of Intel, at the Barclays 22nd Annual Global Technology Conference.

Johnston Holthaus raised concerns about the high return rate of Qualcomm-powered machines. Retailers are seeing a significant number of Arm PCs being returned due to compatibility issues with common applications.

Despite these challenges, Arm-based systems are gaining ground in the PC market, with Apple’s M-series processors leading the way. Intel is also improving its performance and power efficiency to compete with Arm-based rivals.

Intel has introduced a hybrid architecture in its latest processors, combining E-cores and P-cores for a balance of power efficiency and performance. The company is also working on low-power SoCs with Arm and integrating AI hardware into its processors.

AI PCs are on the rise, with Intel and AMD devices gaining traction. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X laptops are praised for their extended battery life, and the upcoming transition to Windows 11 is expected to boost sales of AI PCs.