Microsoft has introduced a major redesign to its computer keyboards, which now include a dedicated button for an artificial intelligence chatbot. This marks the first significant change to their keyboards in 30 years.

Beginning this month, certain newly released personal computers will come equipped with a unique “Copilot key” that activates Microsoft’s AI chatbot within the Windows 11 operating system.

Microsoft is now working on incorporating an AI button into laptops made by third-party computer companies, such as Dell. This is part of their strategy to take advantage of their strong collaboration with OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, and establish themselves as a leading platform for utilizing generative AI in various applications.

Despite the majority of individuals now accessing the internet and utilizing AI applications through their phones instead of computers, this marks the beginning of a highly competitive year for technology companies as they strive to surpass each other in the realm of AI. However, ethical and legal concerns still remain unresolved. Recently, The New York Times filed lawsuits against both OpenAI and Microsoft, claiming that their tools, including ChatGPT and Copilot (previously known as Bing Chat), are violating copyright laws by using news articles without permission.

Microsoft’s upcoming keyboard overhaul will mark the company’s most significant modification to PC keyboards since the addition of the Windows key in the 1990s. While Microsoft’s four-square logo has undergone changes over the years, the Windows key has remained a staple on keyboards designed for Windows operating systems for approximately thirty years.

The latest artificial intelligence button will feature the Copilot logo resembling a ribbon and will be positioned close to the space bar. On certain computers, it will take the place of the right “CTRL” key, while on others it will replace a menu key.

Other companies have also implemented personalized keys, not just Microsoft. In the 1980s, Apple introduced the idea with its “Command” key featuring a looped square design (at one point, it also had an Apple logo). Google has a search button on its Chromebooks and was the first to test an AI-specific key for launching its voice assistant on the now-discontinued Pixelbook.

However, Microsoft maintains a significant influence in the larger computer market through its licensing deals with third-party companies such as Lenovo, Dell, and HP. According to IDC, approximately 82% of desktops, laptops, and workstations operate on Windows, while Apple’s proprietary operating system accounts for 9%, and Google’s for just over 6%.

On Thursday, Dell Technologies became the first company to introduce a Copilot key on their latest XPS laptops.

Microsoft has not disclosed the other computer manufacturers that will have the Copilot button installed, apart from their premium Surface devices produced in-house. It has been reported that some of these companies will reveal their new models at the upcoming CES event in Las Vegas.

Source: wral.com