Large Language Models

Hello,

I have been looking into a new laptop, and was coming across ones with these NPUs heavily advertised in them. Doing some reading, they don't seem extremely functional at this stage.

They are around 45-50 TOPS at the highest it seems. I found some articles and comments suggesting that 'could' be useful for locally using smaller models, but also statements conflicting with that. As well, most, if not all, 'technical use' of them seem locked into the Windows environment. Even some program from AMD allowing local LLM use requires a Windows Server for it to communicate with, iirc. (AMD, GAIA)

So, is there, currently, any technical use for these, such that it makes much sense to grab a device with one for tinkering?

I'd considered experimenting with smaller models and seeing what comes of those (if small model improvements come through as DeepSeek proponents might suggest).

I'm also just generally new to the technology, but intrigued by the potential to localize usage; not only because of the potential to limit the environmental impact of large data center use.

Any comments, ideas, suggestions, or general pointing in a direction is very appreciated.

Thank you for taking the time. Have a good day!