Microsoft Introduces AI Chatbot Key to Computer Keyboards
The tech company has introduced a noteworthy update to its keyboards, marking the most significant change in years. Microsoft has unveiled its first major keyboard redesign in three decades, and it includes a special Copilot key for an artificial intelligence chatbot.
Beginning this month, certain new personal computers running Microsoft’s Windows 11 operating system will feature this unique Copilot key, designed to launch the software giant’s AI chatbot.
Microsoft is actively encouraging third-party computer manufacturers to incorporate this AI button into their laptops. This strategic move aims to leverage Microsoft’s close partnership with OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, establishing Microsoft as a gateway for applications utilizing generative AI technology.
Even though most individuals now access the internet and numerous AI applications through their phones rather than computers, the recent introduction of a new keyboard marks a symbolic beginning to what is anticipated to be a competitive year for tech companies. They are racing to outperform each other in AI applications, despite the fact that they have not yet fully addressed all the ethical and legal issues.
In a recent development, The New York Times filed a lawsuit against both OpenAI and Microsoft, claiming that tools like ChatGPT and Copilot (formerly known as Bing Chat) are infringing on copyrighted news articles.
This keyboard redesign by Microsoft represents the most significant alteration to PC keyboards since the introduction of the special Windows key in the 1990s. While Microsoft’s four-squared logo design has evolved over time, the key has remained a fixture on Windows-oriented keyboards for about three decades.
The latest AI button will feature the distinctive ribbon-like Copilot logo and will be positioned near 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.
Microsoft is not alone in incorporating customized keys. Apple led the way in the 1980s with its Command key, identified by a looped square design (it also included an Apple logo for a period).
Google, too, has implemented specialized keys. Chromebooks have a dedicated search button, and Google was the first to explore an AI-specific key for launching its voice assistant, a feature that was part of its now-discontinued Pixelbook.
