MSI is pushing the boundaries of what a mini PC can be with the launch of the Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG, a compact desktop that feels part workstation, part smart speaker, and part laptop. It ships with a dedicated Copilot button, enabling instant access to Microsoft’s AI assistant, as well as a built-in microphone and speaker for direct voice interaction. Unlike most desktops, MSI has also added a fingerprint sensor beneath the power button, giving users laptop-grade biometric security in a box that fits in the palm of a hand.
The Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG is one of the first small desktops to qualify as a Copilot+ PC, powered by Intel’s second-generation Lunar Lake architecture. Buyers can configure it with either a Core Ultra 9 288V or Core Ultra 7 258V chip, both of which bring strong CPU performance, next-gen integrated graphics, and a dedicated 48 TOPS NPU for handling on-device AI workloads. Starting at $899 in a bare-bones form via B&H, it can be expanded with up to 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 1TB SSD, raising the price to about $1,257 at CDW for a fully equipped model.
Physically, the system is tiny—just 5.3 inches wide, 5.2 inches deep, and 2 inches thick, with a weight of 1.5 pounds without the power brick. Despite its size, it has a surprisingly complete selection of ports. These include two Thunderbolt 4 connections (one with power delivery), two 10Gbps USB-A ports, two 480Mbps USB-A ports, a microSD card reader, dual 2.5Gbps Ethernet jacks, an HDMI 2.1 port, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a Kensington lock port for security.
Where the Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG really stands out, however, is in how it blends the roles of desktop PC and smart device. By combining the Copilot button with integrated voice controls, MSI envisions a PC that you can converse with directly, whether for productivity tasks, quick answers, or even AI chat tools like ChatGPT. While some may find speaking to a desktop awkward in public spaces, MSI clearly sees it as a major convenience feature for the home or office.
As mini PCs surge in popularity in 2025, the Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG demonstrates how far the category has evolved from simple low-power boxes. With a blend of cutting-edge AI capabilities, strong Intel hardware, and unique laptop-inspired design elements, MSI’s latest NUC may be one of the most innovative compact desktops to date.