New research highlights how AI-powered devices could unlock productivity gains across Canada’s economy.
Canada’s lagging productivity has long baffled economists, given the country’s educated workforce, strong institutions, and global competitiveness in natural resources and services. But a new study suggests artificial intelligence may be the missing piece—and the next frontier for workplace efficiency.
A survey commissioned by Intel Canada of 150 business and IT decision-makers, 75 percent from small and medium-sized organizations, found that 85 percent of companies are either upgrading or planning to upgrade to AI PCs, with another 3 percent already using them exclusively. Awareness is widespread: more than four in five respondents said they are familiar with AI PCs and their potential to enhance performance and efficiency.
“We’re entering a new era of workplace innovation where AI is no longer a future vision but instead a productivity engine built into the tools we use every day,” said Asma Aziz, General Manager of Intel Canada. “AI PCs represent a major opportunity for Canadian businesses to empower their people, streamline operations, and build resilience for the future.”
AI as a Productivity Partner
Nearly nine in ten organizations expect productivity to rise once AI becomes embedded in their computing infrastructure. The study found:
- 47% cite higher performance and productivity as the top reason to invest in AI PCs.
- 43% expect greater operational efficiency.
- 34% anticipate cost savings through smarter resource allocation.
Barriers and Skills Gaps
Despite enthusiasm, challenges remain. Upfront cost (37%), ongoing cost (36%), and security concerns (30%) were identified as key barriers to adoption. Meanwhile, a significant AI skills gap persists—although 95% of decision-makers agree training is essential, only 37% have ongoing programs, and 27% rely on one-off sessions. Encouragingly, 45% of businesses now actively encourage employees to experiment with AI tools in their day-to-day work.
Futureproofing for the Next Era
With Microsoft ending support for Windows 10 and Windows 11 becoming the new standard, the transition to AI PCs offers a timely chance for organizations to modernize infrastructure, boost productivity, and improve security simultaneously.
The Intel-commissioned study reflects Canada’s role in a broader global shift toward AI-powered computing—one that could help close the country’s long-standing productivity gap and redefine how work gets done in the digital economy.
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