Microsoft is set to revolutionise keyboards by introducing a dedicated “Copilot key” on select personal computers running the Windows II operating system, allowing users to summon the tech giant’s AI chat bot with a simple press. This strategic move is part of Microsoft’s efforts to leverage its influence in the computer industry and collaborate with OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, making it a prominent gateway for generative AI technology applications.
In a bid to stay at the forefront of AI innovation, Microsoft aims to convince third-party computer manufacturers to incorporate an AI button on laptops. This development comes amid the intensifying competition among tech companies to outshine each other in the realm of AI applications, despite ongoing debates and challenges surrounding ethical and legal considerations.
While the majority of people at present access the Internet and AI applications via smartphones, the introduction of the Copilot key signifies a symbolic step forward. This innovation follows a lawsuit filed by The New York Times against OpenAI and Microsoft, alleging copyright infringement in the creation of tools like ChatGPT and Copilot (formerly known as Bing Chat).
The upcoming keyboard redesign will mark Microsoft’s most significant alteration to PC keyboards since the introduction of the Windows key in the 1990s. The new AI button, adorned with the ribbon-like Copilot logo, will be situated near the space bar. On some computers, it will replace the right “CTRL” key, while on others, it will replace a menu key.
Microsoft’s pioneering move is reminiscent of Apple’s introduction of customized keys in the 1980s, exemplified by the “Command” key featuring a looped square design. Google also embraced the concept with a search button on Chromebooks and previously experimented with an AI-specific key for launching its voice assistant on the now-discontinued Pixelbook.
