Microsoft has recently unveiled a significant transformation in its Windows keyboards, marking a domain that has remained unchanged for three decades. The iconic Windows/Start button is now being replaced by the Copilot key, symbolizing Microsoft’s extensive integration of AI services into Windows 11.
AI is omnipresent at this week’s CES, the world’s largest technology trade show, where CNET is on-site, covering the intricacies of the event before its official commencement. Leading up to the heightened emphasis on AI, Microsoft declared its intention to debut a new, distinct key specifically designed to launch its AI tool, Copilot, on Windows 11 laptops and PCs. The updates broaden Copilot’s functionality as an enterprise assistant within Office applications such as Teams, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
“Nearly 30 years ago, we introduced the Windows key to the PC keyboard that enabled people all over the world to interact with Windows. We see this as another transformative moment in our journey with Windows where Copilot will be the entry point into the world of AI on the PC.”
– Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft’s executive vice president and consumer Chief Marketing Officer
Microsoft has introduced greater flexibility to the chatbot’s output, allowing users to adjust it using instructions to tailor its formatting and tone according to their personal preferences. Initially, Word and PowerPoint will receive these new personalization features, but the company has stated that other Microsoft 365 apps will eventually support this functionality.
“We believe it will empower people to participate in the AI transformation more easily. The new key will invoke the Copilot in Windows experience to make it seamless to engage Copilot in your day to day.”
– Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft’s executive vice president and consumer Chief Marketing Officer
Microsoft has further announced alterations to Copilot’s functionality within Teams meetings in the upcoming year. Copilot will begin to take notes during these meetings and subsequently share them with participants afterward. Moreover, should users require a transcription specific to an individual, they can prompt the chatbot to “quote” them, enabling it to record and document their remarks accordingly.
Where will be the Copilot key positioned?
The Copilot key will house the AI-powered chatbot and will be strategically positioned to the right of the space bar on Windows 11 keyboards and will replace either the menu key or the right control key on some keyboards.. This innovative feature aims to enhance user interactions with Copilot by providing AI-driven answers that closely resemble the capabilities of ChatGPT.
This development signifies a significant change to the Windows keyboard, which has remained largely unchanged since 1994 when Microsoft introduced the Windows/Start key. The integration of Copilot aligns with Microsoft’s vision for a more personalized and intelligent computing future, emphasizing the seamless integration of AI into Windows across various levels.
For Windows users who either don’t have Copilot enabled or reside in countries where Copilot is not available, the new key will activate Windows Search. Currently, Windows users can access Copilot by pressing the combination of the Windows key + C.
New Copilot Packages Announced
Microsoft has also unveiled several new Copilot packages: Copilot for Dynamics 365, Copilot for Service, and Copilot for Sales. In Dynamics 365, Copilot is designed to provide prompt answers for field technicians. The service-oriented version, anticipated to debut in early 2024, aims to facilitate “agent-assisted support,” offering solutions and personalized resources for customers. Copilot for Sales, scheduled for release in the first quarter of 2024, similarly serves as a platform for accessing information. This iteration emphasizes AI-generated meeting briefs that incorporate customer details, attendee names and titles, and other pertinent information for meetings.
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