Lenovo Unveils Innovative AI Concept Devices at MWC 2025

Lenovo has been making waves at MWC 2025 with the introduction of its latest AI-driven hardware, including some intriguing proof-of-concept models that might one day hit the market. Among these innovations is a Yoga PC that harnesses solar power for both the device and its accompanying charging unit, and the AI Display POC, which boasts a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for managing local AI tasks. This initiative aligns with Lenovo’s vision of delivering “smarter technology for all,” particularly targeting PCs lacking an internal NPU.

The AI Display concept empowers regular PCs with capabilities like Large Language Models (LLMs) and AI assistance, although Lenovo hasn’t specified the AI Display’s NPU power, typically measured in TOPS. Quite captivating is the monitor’s capability to automatically adjust its position—rotating, raising, or tilting for optimal ergonomic positioning, which is a significant plus for anyone spending long hours in front of a screen. Yet, whether this concept smoothly transitions into practical use remains to be tested.

In the realm of connectivity, Lenovo showcased its AI Stick—a compact NPU accessory designed to seamlessly enhance any Thunderbolt-enabled PC with robust AI functionalities. Offering 32 TOPS of AI power via Thunderbolt or AC power, its aim is to support Lenovo’s suite of AI tools, like AI Now and boost AI-rendered graphics. However, it falls short for Windows 11’s Copilot+ features, which demand at least 40 TOPS. Despite its modest capabilities, the AI Stick stands out for its portability, comparable to a small external SSD, making it travel-friendly.

These concepts, while still in the prototype phase, hint at Lenovo’s vision of incorporating AI readily into everyday computing. Whether these AI-boosted monitors and NPU adapters become mainstream remains unseen, as exact details on release dates or pricing are still under wraps.

Reflecting on previous innovations, the ThinkCentre neo Ultra, introduced last year, also embraced a discrete NPU approach with its Kinara Ara-2 boasting 40 TOPS, set to handle complex AI tasks upon future software updates. While the precise power of the AI Display POC is undisclosed, the AI Stick’s limit of 32 TOPS is clear, positioning it well below the capabilities of advanced GPUs, like NVIDIA’s RTX 4070 Super with its staggering 1,300+ TOPS. But Lenovo isn’t necessarily aiming at competing with high-end graphics systems. Instead, they target users looking for a simple, effective boost to AI performance, enabling the CPU and GPU to focus on other tasks. Plus, local NPU-based AI brings an added layer of security by keeping data within the device.

The AI Stick may cater to a niche market for now, but it holds potential as AI technologies evolve. Central to this is Lenovo’s AI Now—a suite of tools complementing the AI Stick’s offerings. Introduced around the same time as the ThinkCentre neo Ultra, it’s a personalized AI assistant utilizing “hybrid large models” to combine personal data with an intuitive understanding of tasks.

AI Now splits into two segments: the Knowledge Assistant, designed for efficient information retrieval and protected local processing, and the PC Assistant, which offers smart setup capabilities for optimizing performance without requiring technical expertise. Lenovo anticipates expanding AI Now’s features soon, with variations in region-based support and offerings.

Given its current limitations regarding Copilot+ functions, Lenovo’s AI Now will likely evolve to justify investment in the AI Stick as it adopts more compelling features.