Nearly three decades since revolutionizing keyboards with the Windows key, Microsoft has now introduced another dedicated button that signals its next frontier – Artificial Intelligence.
In a historic alteration, Microsoft unveiled a new Copilot key that will sit between the spacebar and arrow keys on Windows keyboards. Set to appear on new 2023 laptops and eventually become mandatory, it provides one-touch access to Microsoft’s AI assistant for productivity enhancements.
By simply pressing the key, users can activate Copilot to generate emails, summarise text, create images via DALL-E prompts, and automate other tasks. The feature leverages capabilities from OpenAI’s cutting-edge GPT-4 language model which Microsoft is betting big on with a $13 billion investment.
The redesign makes Copilot access nearly as seamless as invoking Word or Excel. It underscores Microsoft’s grand vision to make AI ubiquitous and mainstream in the coming era it dubs the “year of the AI PC.”
We’re excited for 2024 to be the year of the AI PC. An important first step is the introduction of a Copilot key for Windows 11 PCs, which will enable one-click access to Copilot! Learn more: https://t.co/3FHre8YdWn pic.twitter.com/PvadEPfZBb
— Yusuf Mehdi (@yusuf_i_mehdi) January 4, 2024
From underlying silicon to operating systems and apps, Microsoft aims to bake responsive AI across Windows products. Spearheading the shift are flagship devices from partners like Lenovo, Acer, and HP showcasing the Copilot keyboard at CES 2023 this week.
However, the ramp-up may not immediately accelerate AI device sales as the features also support existing hardware. However, increased future reliance on advanced AI workflows could compel more users to upgrade.
By dedicating a prime keyboard real estate to Copilot, Microsoft has made its AI ambitions impossible to ignore. The tech giant believes it can replicate the success of the Windows key launched in 1994. Time will tell whether the AI key also transform how people use personal computers in the years ahead.
