Microsoft adds dedicated Copilot key to Windows keyboards

Hopes easier access will boost AI adoption

Microsoft has announced a major leap in user interaction with the introduction of a dedicated Copilot key on keyboards for new Windows PCs.

The move is the first addition to the default Windows keyboard since the introduction of the Windows key in 1994.

"Today, we are excited to take the next significant step forward and introduce a new Copilot key to Windows 11 PCs," said Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft's head of Windows and Surface.

"In this new year, we will be ushering in a significant shift toward a more personal and intelligent computing future where AI will be seamlessly woven into Windows from the system, to the silicon, to the hardware. This will not only simplify people's computing experience but also amplify it, making 2024 the year of the AI PC."

The Copilot key is designed to launch text conversations with Microsoft's virtual assistant, Copilot, leveraging AI models from OpenAI.

OpenAI is known for its ChatGPT chatbot, the technology behind which powers Copilot, allowing it to generate human-like text in response to written input. The functionality extends to composing emails, answering questions and activating various PC features.

The move to incorporate AI into Windows 11 keyboards follows the integration of AI into other products, including Microsoft 365 and Bing search, in the previous year.

Copilot is already present on Windows 11 PCs, with a Windows + C access shortcut. Microsoft believes adding a dedicated Copilot key will further boost adoption.

Device manufacturers are expected to showcase PCs with the Copilot key at the upcoming International CES in Las Vegas, which begins on the 9th January.

Availability for PCs and Surface devices with the Copilot key is set to begin later this month.

The move aims to revitalise the Windows operating system and spur a wave of PC upgrades, potentially contributing to a revenue boost for Microsoft.

While Windows may not hold the same dominance it once did, accounting for around 10% of Microsoft's revenue, the company is actively seeking ways to innovate and drive user engagement.

Notably, the introduction of the AI key aligns Microsoft with rivals like Apple, which has included a Siri button or option on its touch bar in MacBooks for several years.

Microsoft is also aligning with the industry trend towards the "AI PC," featuring special chip components that enhance computational efficiency beyond standard silicon.

"We will continue to build Windows to be the destination for the best AI experiences. This will require an operating system that blurs the lines between local and cloud processing," Mehdi said.

"The year ahead promises to be nothing short of extraordinary!"