Microsoft introduced an AI key to its keyboard, the biggest upgrade in over three decades, which lets Windows 11 users utilize Microsoft's powerful AI product, Copilot.
Microsoft strategically invested in OpenAI, which powers Copilot's AI capabilities. After integrating AI into Microsoft 365 and Bing Search in 2023, the AI key is a huge step toward integrating AI directly into the user interface. For years, MacBooks have had a Siri button on their touch bars, integrating AI into regular chores.
Taking User Experience to the Next Level
Copilot uses OpenAI's GPT-4 big language model to help users with search queries, email composing, and picture creation. Its integration into Microsoft's ecosystem, including Word, PowerPoint, and Teams, has shown its ability to summarize meetings, compose emails, and create presentations.
Microsoft's Executive Vice President Yusuf Mehdi called this a "transformative" event, comparing it to the Windows key nearly three decades ago. Microsoft's dedication to human-computer interaction was shown by Mehdi's claim that the new AI key will "simplify" and "amplify" the user experience, according to BBC.
Microsoft plans to unveil new AI-key keyboards at CES in Las Vegas in February. This move aligns with Microsoft's broader strategy to leverage AI technologies across its product offerings.
"Over the coming days leading up to and at CES, you will start to see the Copilot key on many of the new Windows 11 PCs from our ecosystem partners, with availability beginning later this month through Spring, including on upcoming Surface devices," Microsoft stated in its blog.
Recognizing Copilot's Power
While Windows 11 users can already access Copilot by pressing the Windows key + C, the dedicated AI key signifies a heightened focus on making AI integration more accessible. Professor John Tucker, a computer scientist at the University of Swansea, sees this as a "natural step" that emphasizes Microsoft's commitment to AI features and their potential to bind users to a comprehensive suite of products.
However, Tucker also notes that the lack of substantial changes to PC keyboards in the last 30 years is not a point of pride. He suggests that the introduction of the Copilot key demonstrates the company's recognition of the feature's value and its potential to become a central aspect of users' interactions.
Microsoft's introduction of the AI key follows its announcement in May 2023 that Copilot would be available across all Microsoft 365 applications, per VultureBeat. This recent development offers Copilot accessibility to users with locally installed Windows 11, showcasing a deeper integration of the AI tool into the operating system itself.
As more businesses look to integrate AI capabilities into their workflows, the introduction of the AI key positions Copilot as a powerful tool with broader industry acceptance.
"We are excited to take the next step on our journey," Microsoft stated.
