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The laptop market in 2023 is already seeing some exciting developments, but many analysts believe that 2024 will bring even more innovative advances. From widespread adoption of OLED displays, to new CPUs and GPUs, laptops are poised to evolve in major ways in the coming years.
In this in-depth article, we’ll look at the most important laptop trends analysts forecast for 2024 and beyond. You’ll get insight into:
- The growth of OLED display laptops
- New processors from Intel, AMD, Apple and others
- How AI and machine learning will impact laptop design
- Sustainability improvements in manufacturing
- Models, customization options and features to expect
- Guidance on buying a future-ready premium laptop
If you’re considering upgrading your laptop in 2023 or 2024, read on for a sneak preview of the key innovations coming down the pipeline.
Will OLED Displays Become the New Normal in Laptops by 2024?
OLED displays are touted as the next big thing for laptops, providing higher contrast, true blacks, faster response times, and vivid image quality. Apple already uses OLED in its watches and smartphones, and launched its first OLED laptop in the 2022 MacBook Pro.
Many analysts predict OLED will become mainstream in laptop displays by 2024. Ming-Chi Kuo, a reliable Apple product leaker and analyst, forecasts that Apple will shift to using OLED panels in most MacBook models by 2024. This includes the highly popular 13-inch MacBook Air.
Kuo predicts 15-inch and larger MacBooks will also move to OLED in 2024. This transition for the broader laptop market is expected because OLED panel production costs continue to decrease each year. As more manufacturers switch, OLED will become the new normal for premium and high-end laptops.
What New CPUs Are Coming in 2023-2024?
The brains of any laptop is its CPU, so advances here have an enormous impact on performance and capabilities. Both Intel and AMD are planning major next-gen CPU releases in 2023 and 2024.
For Intel, 2024 will bring the launch of Meteor Lake, the company’s first disaggregated CPU built on the Intel 4 process node. This 7nm CPU is expected to provide a big jump in power efficiency and computing power.
Meanwhile, AMD plans to release its Ryzen 7000-series processors built on the innovative Zen 4 architecture. These new Ryzen chips will use TSMC’s cutting-edge 5nm process.
Apple is also planning its own in-house Arm-based CPUs to replace the M-series chips found in MacBooks today. Its third-gen Silicon chips, expected to debut in 2023, will push Apple’s performance lead even further.
With fierce competition between these CPU players, laptop owners can expect rapid innovation in processing performance over the next couple years.
Will Gaming Laptops Get Even More Powerful in 2024?
Gaming laptops have become incredibly capable in recent years. Thanks to mobile versions of powerful desktop graphics cards from Nvidia and AMD, it’s now possible to play AAA games at high settings on the go.
Nvidia’s new RTX 40-series GPUs indicate how much further this performance can scale. The flagship RTX 4090 delivers up to twice the performance of the previous gen RTX 3090. While the full-powered mobile RTX 40-series GPUs won’t arrive in gaming laptops until 2023 at the earliest, they provide a glimpse of the future.
By 2024, we can expect even more powerful RTX and RDNA mobile GPUs. Combined with the improved CPUs detailed above, high-end gaming laptops will offer desktop-class power, letting gamers crank up resolution and detail settings even further. AI-powered upscaling techniques like Nvidia DLSS 3 will also enable better framerates.
How Will AI and Machine Learning Shape Laptops of the Future?
Artificial intelligence and machine learning has become integral to all modern tech devices and services. Laptops are no exception – from hardware design to user experiences, AI will have a growing impact.
On the hardware side, Nvidia and AMD are tapping into AI to boost gaming performance. AI architected silicon coming in 2023 and beyond promises huge gains in gaming efficiency and visual fidelity.
For general performance, component makers are utilizing AI to optimize laptop thermals and power delivery. Machine learning also aids in balancing CPU, GPU and memory resources to avoid throttling.
User-facing AI is making laptops smarter and more convenient. Virtual assistants like Apple’s Siri, Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant let you operate laptops hands-free. AI powers handy features like facial recognition login, adaptive displays and noise cancellation.
As silicon process nodes become more complex, manufacturers will rely on AI design. In turn, smarter laptops with more capable AI acceleration will arrive.
Sustainability Becomes a Priority in Laptop Manufacturing
With environmental concerns growing, the tech industry faces pressure to make sustainability a priority. Laptop makers are responding by designing energy efficient laptops, reducing waste, and using recycled materials.
Leading the charge is Apple, which aims to make the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro completely carbon neutral by 2030. This includes targeting net-zero supply chain emissions and adopting low carbon aluminum smelting for MacBook chassis.
Microsoft also shared plans to start using 100% recycled ocean plastic in Surface devices. Other PC makers like HP, Dell and Lenovo are increasing their use of recyclable materials and reducing carbon footprints as well.
As part of its “Progress Made Real” plan, HP set a goal to reach net zero emissions in operations by 2025, ten years ahead of the Paris Agreement.
Expect sustainability measures like these to expand through 2024 and beyond. Eco-conscious consumers will vote with their wallets, encouraging the industry to take responsibility for its environmental impact.
13-inch Notebooks: Balancing Portability and Power
13-inch laptops strike an appealing balance of portability and usability. They’re a popular choice for students, professionals, creatives and home users. Top options expected to evolve in 2024 include:
MacBook Air: After revamping the design in 2022 based on the M2 chip, Apple is prepping an all-new 15-inch model for 2024 according to Ming-Chi Kuo. This will bring a larger display while maintaining thin bezels and a compact footprint. Expect a cutting-edge Apple Silicon CPU.
Dell XPS 13: Dell’s premium XPS 13 aims to be the most powerful 13-inch Ultrabook. The 2024 model will offer 12th Gen Intel CPUs or Ryzen 6000U chips, with upcoming refreshes having Meteor Lake and Zen 4 inside. Display, connectivity and chassis improvements are likely too.
HP Spectre x360: HP’s convertible 2-in-1 prides itself on bold styling and robust feature sets. The next-gen x360 13t is rumored to get a major redesign in late 2023, with refreshed OLED display options.
Asus ZenBook S 13: The ZenBook S 13 is already one of the best lightweight 13-inch Ultrabooks. For 2024, Asus could upgrade to Intel’s Meteor Lake or Apple-rivaling Zen 4 CPUs for a performance boost in the sub-2.5lb chassis.
Microsoft Surface Laptop: Microsoft’s answer to the MacBook combines premium hardware with Windows 11. Beyond the rumored Surface Laptop 5 in 2023, we can expect continued innovation on the display, touchpad, keyboard and pen support.
On the whole, 13-inch laptops aim to pack as much performance and features as possible into petite but practical frames. Advancing technology will allow for even thinner designs with longer battery life.
Do Chromebooks Have a Place in the Laptop Market of 2024?
Chrome OS laptops have exploded in popularity in recent years thanks to low cost and ease of use. But what is their future as Windows and Mac laptops become more capable and affordable?
While growth is slowing, Chromebooks still carved out a niche in the laptop ecosystem. They dominate the education market, where reliability and simplicity are prioritized over high performance.
The work-from-home boom also fueled Chromebook demand. Their low cost and secure remote access capabilities make them an attractive option for basic home and office needs.
As manufacturers boost premium Chromebook offerings, the devices gain appeal for general consumers too. For example, Acer’s recent Chromebook Spin 713 sports an Intel 11th Gen Core i5 CPU, bright 2K display, all-metal chassis and long battery life, but costs just $629.
Still, as more affordable Windows laptops hit the market, Chromebooks could face renewed pressure. To stay competitive, Google needs to keep enhancing Chrome OS with new features and Android app support.
It’s unlikely Chromebooks fade away entirely thanks to their entrenched school presence. But expect their growth to slow in 2024 as alternatives gain ground. They’ll remain popular among budget-focused shoppers and in education.
What Processor Upgrades Will Tablets See in 2024?
Tablets have come a long way since the original iPad launched in 2010. While laptops are top choice for demanding creative work and gaming, tablets satisfy many everyday computing needs on the go.
Recent tablet processor upgrades provide a glimpse of what we can expect in 2024 and beyond:
- The 2021 iPad Pro featured Apple’s blisteringly fast M1 chip, showing tablets can offer laptop-class performance. The M2 is expected in iPad Pros later this year, followed by continually improved Apple silicon.
- Microsoft’s Surface Pro 9 is rumored to be getting a major overhaul with 12th Gen Intel Core or ARM-based processors. This will provide a big boost for running full Windows apps.
- Qualcomm and MediaTek’s next-gen ARM chips fabricated on TSMC’s 4nm process will bring more power efficiency and speed.
Tablet sales face some pandemic-related headwinds after surging growth in 2020. However, IDC forecasts a recovery with 5.1% growth in 2023.
Upcoming chips enabling significant performance gains, slimmer form factors, and tablet-centric features like 5G connectivity will keep tablets competitive as on-the-go productivity devices.
Outlook for the Overall PC and Tablet Market in 2024
Despite economic uncertainty, analyst firm IDC sees reason for optimism in the personal computing market:
“While we’ve seen some slowdown in the PC market in 2022, it’s still above pre-pandemic levels,” said Jitesh Ubrani, research vice president for IDC. Supply chain issues are expected to ease through 2023 setting the stage for growth in 2024.
However, Factors like inflation and a weaker global economy present headwinds. “The current forecast could still prove too optimistic if these issues persist,” Ubrani cautioned.
On the tablet front, IDC forecasts a 5.1% increase YoY in 2023 units shipped as demand recovers post-pandemic. Tablets saw over 40% growth in 2020.
“With more vendors competing in the market and more use cases for tablets–from content consumption to learning and communicating–we expect long-term viability and purpose-built offerings to drive additional refreshes,” explained Ubrani.
While off the pandemic highs, the personal computing industry remains healthy. With strategic innovation in 2024 and beyond, laptops and tablets will stay indispensable productivity tools in the modern digital world.
Buying a Future-Proof Premium Laptop in 2023 or 2024
If you’re considering purchasing a high-end laptop in the next year or two, keep these tips in mind:
- Prioritize the display – A bright, vibrant, high-resolution display with thin bezels provides the best viewing experience. OLED is ideal if you can get it. Touch support is also convenient.
- Choose at least a 12th Gen Intel Core i5/i7 or Ryzen 5000/6000 CPU – This ensures excellent performance for years to come. Upcoming 13th Gen Intel and Ryzen 7000 chips will provide an even bigger boost.
- Get a discrete GPU – For gaming or creative work, a dedicated Nvidia RTX or AMD Radeon GPU is a must. RTX 3050 Ti or better can handle demanding tasks.
- Ensure all-day battery life – Look for over 8 hours of real-world battery runtime. Charging speed is also important.
- Pick sufficient RAM/storage – 16GB RAM or higher keeps your system speedy with multiple apps open. 512GB or higher SSD provides room for programs, files and media.
- Weigh portability vs. power – Max performance requires thicker, heavier laptops. Decide if you prioritize thin-and-light portability or processing capabilities and graphics.
- Think repairability – Replaceable components extend lifespan. Look for upgradeable memory/storage and easy access to battery.
Keep an eye out for laptop deals in 2023 and early 2024 right before major new releases. You can score an advanced model at a discount. With smart selection, your new laptop will still feel speedy and capable years from now.
The Last Word
It’s an exciting time in the laptop industry. In 2024 and beyond, expect impressive innovation across displays, processors, graphics, connectivity and form factors.
AI-enhanced performance and user experiences are coming too, along with increased focus on sustainability. While economic conditions pose some uncertainty, analyst forecasts remain cautiously optimistic.
For shoppers, it’s a great opportunity to take advantage of upcoming advances by purchasing a future-ready laptop. By choosing the right combination of features and components, your investment will pay dividends for years to come.
What potential laptop developments are you most eagerly anticipating? Let us know in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: What are the expectations for the new OLED Macbook Air launching in 2024?
A: As of now, we expect the OLED MacBook Air launching in 2024 to have better performance than its predecessors. Apple’s upcoming MacBook Air series will reportedly feature chipsets that support more advanced graphics like the RTX 4060. Additionally, it’s not all good news, as there have been rumors about higher prices due to the cost of OLED production.
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Q: How will Windows 11 impact Asus, Surface Pro, and other PCs in 2024?
A: The release of Windows 11 is expected to initiate a refresh cycle for many PC hardware companies, including Asus and Surface Pro. IDC’s predictions indicate that Windows 11 will offer more user-friendly and streamlined options, potentially leading to an increase in sales of PCs and tablets in the coming months.
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Q: What can we look ahead to in terms of e-commerce for new PCs in 2024?
A: In 2024, e-commerce for new PCs is likely to boom. With a wider range of products becoming more common, including lightweight laptops and workstations, online sales are projected to hit millions of units. Additionally, due to B2C and B2B demand, PC shipments via e-commerce platforms are also expected to increase.
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Q: Can we expect lightweight laptops to become more common in 2024?
A: Yes, lightweight laptops are indeed expected to become more common in 2024. This new trend in the product category, driven by the demand for greater mobility and user-friendly devices, has been recognized by major brands like Apple and Asus, as they have already announced their plans to launch more lightweight and mid-range PCs.
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Q: Are there any expected changes in the way we use our laptops’ inbox?
A: As AI continues to evolve, it is anticipated that by 2024, the use of AI to streamline inbox management will become more common. The use of AI algorithms can help sort through emails efficiently and categorize them based on prioritization rules set by the user.
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Q: How can the LinkedIn platform leverage the advancements in upcoming MacBook Air and other laptops in 2024?
A: The developments like better performance chipsets and OLED displays in the upcoming MacBook Air may allow platforms like LinkedIn to offer more graphics-intensive features. In-depth reviews suggested that these improvements could also potentially allow richer media experiences and better video conferencing capabilities for LinkedIn users.
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Q: How could the x86 architecture influence the PC laptop industry in 2024?
A: The x86 architecture, which Windows currently uses, remains a key factor in PC laptop design. In 2024, we expect continued optimization of x86 architecture to maximize PCs’ performance. That should benefit not just high-end computers but also more economical laptop models.
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Q: What wild cards could potentially impact the PC laptop industry in 2024?
A: 2024 could see several potential wild cards in the PC laptop industry. Some of these factors include rapidly changing customer preferences, sudden global economic changes, new breakthroughs in PC hardware technologies, and competitive market saturation.
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Q: What are some trends in the PC market that can be expected in 2024 based on year-over-year data?
A: Based on year-over-year data, it is expected that OLED display laptops will continue to gain market share. Also, the demand for lightweight laptops will continue to increase, along with the necessity for a refresh cycle due to new developments like Windows 11.
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Q: How will new CPUs in laptops affect the Apple vs Windows situation in 2024?
A: In 2024, new CPUs will likely enhance both Apple’s and Windows’ capability to offer better performing laptops. However, the competition between the two will intensify, especially if Windows can provide similar or better performance and features at a lower price point.
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