Arizona State University makes football history as it deploys Intel AI PCs during 2025-26 offseason
Intel is working with Arizona State University (ASU) to make it the first Division I NCAA football program in the US to deploy a fleet of AI PCs during the 2025-26 off season.
ASU is rolling out a a fleet of Lenovo ThinkPad X9-14 Gen 1 PCs, powered by the Intel vPro platform, to its football program to evaluate how on device AI can help the team work smarter and optimize their performance.
AI PCs, featuring Intel Core Ultra processors, include a built-in neural processing unit (NPU) capable of running AI workloads locally, supporting privacy and compliance requirements while delivering faster insights directly to the user.
“College football is as much about preparation and strategy as it is about raw talent,” says Arizona State Athletics Director, Graham Rossini. “By giving our staff access to Intel powered AI PCs, we’re arming them with tools to identify recruits faster, break down and visualize game data, and engage fans in ways that weren’t possible before. It’s about gaining an edge, and we believe this technology can help us do that.”
“AI PCs are changing how work gets done - not just in the office, but on the field,” says Jen Larson, General Manager, Commercial Client Segments at Intel. “By putting AI computing power directly in the hands of programs like ASU football, we’re helping them unlock faster insights and new efficiencies in the moments that matter most.”
“AI PCs mark a turning point in how organizations harness advanced computing to enhance performance,” says Steve Long, SVP Commercial Business Segment, Intelligent Devices Group, Lenovo. “By combining Lenovo’s ThinkPad leadership with Intel’s AI innovation, we’re helping customers like Arizona State University redefine how they can use technology to realize their potential. Unlocking new levels of productivity, adaptability, and insight shows how smarter solutions can make a real impact both on and off the field.”
ASU has also partnered with Intel on initiatives in semiconductor education and global workforce development efforts.
RTIH AI in Retail Awards
Our sister title, RTIH, proudly presents the first edition of its AI in Retail Awards, sponsored by 3D Cloud and Retail Technology Show 2026.
This is now open for entries. Deadline for submissions is Friday, 5th December. It’s free to enter and you can do so across multiple categories.
Check out categories and entry forms here.
As we witness a digital transformation revolution across all channels, AI tools are reshaping the omnichannel game, from personalising customer experiences to optimising inventory, uncovering insights into consumer behaviour, and enhancing the human element of retailers' businesses.
With 2025 set to be the year when AI and especially gen AI shake off the ‘heavily hyped’ tag and become embedded in retail business processes, our newly launched awards celebrate global technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world and the resulting benefits for retailers, shoppers and employees.
Our 2025 winners will be those companies who not only recognise the potential of AI, but also make it usable in everyday work - resulting in more efficiency and innovation in all areas.
Winners will be announced at an evening event at The Barbican in Central London on Thursday, 29th January. This will kick off with a drinks reception in the stunning Conservatory, followed by a three course meal, and awards ceremony in the Garden Room.
