December 8, 2025

Windows 11 Platform for Local AI

As managing vice president, Rob Helm covers Microsoft collaboration and content management. His 25-plus years of experience analyzing Microsoft’s technology... more

Windows 11 offers a built-in platform for local AI applications.

Compared to cloud AI, local AI can offer less delay, better security, and lower compliance risk.

Early adopters could face migrations off the Windows AI platform if it does not meet the Windows team’s business goals.

A small pilot test with a vertical application is a good opening move.

Windows 11 began featuring built-in AI models and AI APIs in Nov. 2024. The platform gives developers of native Windows 11 applications access to the same generative AI technologies that the OS uses to enhance search, generate text, and extract data from photos. “Local AI” applications on the platform can do complex tasks without calling on an external cloud service, which can help with performance and other concerns. However, organizations should not bet too much on Windows AI, which faces internal competition and conflicting business objectives.

What is the Windows AI Platform ?

The Windows 11 AI platform includes AI models, APIs, software development frameworks, and toolchains for Windows native applications (see fig. 1 for an overview of runtime components.) The platform has had several names so far:

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