Microsoft Introduces New Key To Keyboards For First Time In Nearly Three Decades

Photo 69004351 © Donfiore | Dreamstime.com

Microsoft is pressing forward in the new year with an unforeseen update—it has introduced a Copilot key to the traditional Windows keyboard, a change that hasn’t been seen in nearly 30 years. The button will soon be a feature on various PCs and laptops from the company’s partners.

Embracing 2024 as “the year of the AI PC,” the tech giant sees this step as a significant evolution in keying up user interaction with artificial intelligence. The Copilot key simplifies how users can harness AI in their daily computing tasks. With a single press, it activates the Copilot generative AI assistant within Windows 10 and Windows 11, making AI powers ready at your literal fingertips. 

Image via Windows

If the device doesn’t support Copilot or if the user isn’t signed into a Microsoft account, the key defaults to opening Windows Search instead.

Design-wise, the Copilot key is expected to find its place between the arrow keys and the right Alt button, taking over the spot typically occupied by a menu button, right Ctrl key, or an additional Windows key. The exact placement may vary across different keyboards depending on their size and design.

Video screenshot via Windows

This new addition symbolizes the company’s conviction in generative AI products and is set to become a staple in future Windows 11 keyboards.

“The introduction of the Copilot key marks the first significant change to the Windows PC keyboard in nearly three decades. We believe it will empower people to participate in the AI transformation more easily,” comments Yusuf Mehdi, Executive Vice President and  Consumer Chief Marketing Officer at Microsoft. “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.”

Video screenshot via Windows

The Copilot key is expected to make its debut in some PCs unveiled at CES and will be incorporated into forthcoming Surface devices, heralding a new era of AI-enhanced computing.

[via Ars Technica and CNBC, images via various sources]