HP Bets on AI PCs and Asian Startups for Growth

HP is strategically pivoting towards artificial intelligence, particularly in the realm of AI-powered personal computers, and is actively fostering innovation within the Asian startup ecosystem. This renewed focus aims to revitalize the company's growth trajectory, as indicated by its recent investments and accelerator programs. Michael Boyle, HP’s senior vice president and managing director for Greater Asia, highlighted the company's engagement with AI during an interview in early August, referencing a real-time AI-composed soundtrack at Singapore's Changi Airport. This adaptive music system, created by Singapore-based startup Wubble AI, demonstrates the practical application of AI in creating dynamic user experiences. HP became an investor in Wubble AI in July, following its participation in HP’s “Garage 2.0” accelerator program, which was launched in Singapore in October 2025. The Garage 2.0 initiative is designed to emulate the innovative spirit of HP’s founding in Bill Hewlett and Dave Packard’s garage in Palo Alto in 1939. This program is run in collaboration with Antler, a global venture firm that has supported over 1,400 ventures across more than 30 international markets. Boyle expressed that observing the rapid progress of founders in such accelerator environments provides valuable inspiration for employees within a large, complex organization like HP, encouraging a return to fundamental principles for scalable innovation. The Garage 2.0 program also addresses a critical question about HP's position in the tech industry, particularly concerning its historical role in shaping Silicon Valley culture. HP's ranking on the Fortune Global 500 has declined to No. 276 from No. 194 in 2017, underscoring the need for new growth avenues. The company's significant bet on AI PCs is predicated on the belief that consumers will increasingly prefer on-device AI processing over cloud-based solutions. HP's engagement with Asia spans nearly six decades, beginning with the establishment of its first regional office in Singapore in 1969, followed by its inaugural Asian manufacturing plant in Singapore's Redhill neighborhood a year later. This long-standing presence in the region positions HP to leverage local talent and market opportunities as it pursues its AI-centric strategy.