💻 Do I need a new computer or phone for AI?

Most AI runs in the cloud

When you use ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or Copilot, the actual computing happens on the provider's servers, not on your device. Your device sends the question and shows the answer. That's why a computer, tablet or phone a few years old handles most AI tasks perfectly well, as long as it has an up-to-date browser and a working internet connection. So don't let the adverts convince you that you need a new “AI computer” to get started.

When does a new device make sense?

Consider a new device if any of the following applies:

• Your device no longer gets security updates. This is the most important reason. Regular support for Windows 10 ended in October 2025, for example, and older phones stop receiving updates. Without updates, a device is more exposed to scams and malware.
• Your browser is slow or keeps crashing. If web pages load painfully slowly, AI services will be frustrating too.
• You want on-device AI features. Apple Intelligence, for instance, needs a fairly recent iPhone, iPad or Mac, and Galaxy AI works most fully on newer Samsung phones.
• You use AI heavily for work. With many tabs, video calls and office apps open at once, the amount of memory starts to matter.

What to look for in a new computer

Memory (RAM)

Memory matters more in daily use than many other specs. For light use 8 GB is still enough, but 16 GB is a safe choice today if you want the computer to last several years. Microsoft's Copilot+ PCs require at least 16 GB.

AI PC and NPU

“AI PC” or “Copilot+ PC” means a computer with a dedicated AI chip, an NPU. It speeds up on-device features such as background blur in video calls, live captions and some photo tools, and saves battery. Browser-based services don't need an NPU. It's a nice extra, not a necessity.

Camera, microphone and screen

If you use AI in video meetings or talk to an assistant, a good microphone and camera make a clear difference. A comfortable, large enough screen makes reading long texts easier.

Battery and updates

Battery life matters on a laptop, and the newest models are clearly better than their predecessors. Also check how long the manufacturer promises updates.

What about phones?

AI on phones works the same way: the ChatGPT, Gemini and Copilot apps run on most phones that are a few years old. A new phone is worth it if your current one no longer gets updates, or if you want built-in features such as call interpretation, photo editing or Apple's AI. Look especially at:

• Update promise: manufacturers now promise several years of updates for their latest models.
• Memory: on-device AI needs more memory, so at least 8 GB is a good starting point.
• Camera: a good camera helps with Google Lens and other image-based tools.
• Language support: check whether the features you want work in your language. Apple Intelligence, for example, doesn't yet fully support Finnish.

Read more in our guide to AI on your phone.

Don't forget your mobile plan

Phone AI assistants need an internet connection. If you use voice mode or send photos to an assistant on the go, unlimited or generous mobile data is a must. You can compare plans from Telia, Oomi and Moi Mobiili, for example.

Compare devices in Finnish shops

When you decide to buy, take your time and compare several shops. We link to Finnish online stores such as Valco, Proshop, Multitronic, CS Megastore and eStore, and for businesses Dustin. We may earn a small commission on purchases made through these links, which doesn't affect your price or our recommendations.