You can use Windows Task Manager for deeper visibility into AI workloads running on a device. Specifically, per-process activity for the neural processing unit (NPU) and graphics processing unit (GPU) neural engine now appear on the Processes and Performance tabs, alongside other familiar data.
Microsoft 365 Message Center ID: MC1457685
Last Modified: August 20, 2026
Category: Message Center
Tags: New feature, Admin impact
Status: Launched
Products & Platforms: Windows
Rollout schedule
- These Task Manager enhancements became available on some newer devices in the May and June 2026 non-security updates.
- A new blog article is now available to illustrate different use cases for IT professionals, developers, and power users.
Impact on your organization
As AI workloads become more common on Windows devices, visibility into NPU and GPU neural engine utilization can help you make better informed decisions. This data can help as follows:
- For IT professionals: Troubleshoot and report on performance.
- For developers: Validate whether AI models are landing on the intended NPU or GPU neural engine instead of CPU or standard GPU compute.
- For power users: Understand and improve performance and battery life.
Action required/recommendations
Explore the new metrics in Task Manager to evaluate application performance, troubleshoot resource bottlenecks, and better understand how your devices use AI-capable hardware. Read Task Manager features for visibility into AI workloads.
Compliance considerations
No compliance considerations are identified. Review as appropriate for your organization.