In a groundbreaking move, Microsoft has announced the addition of an artificial intelligence button, known as the Copilot key, to its Windows keyboards. This marks the first significant change to the company's keyboards in nearly three decades. Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft's executive vice president, revealed in a recent announcement that the Copilot key will serve as the entry point into the world of AI on the PC.

The Copilot key, which was initially announced in March of last year, integrates AI into Microsoft's software and is currently accessible through the keyboard shortcut Windows + C. However, with the addition of the dedicated Copilot button, Microsoft aims to simplify and amplify users' computing experience by seamlessly integrating AI into Windows, from the system to the hardware.

This revolutionary addition to the Windows keyboard will be featured on new PCs running Windows 11, as well as upcoming Surface devices. While Microsoft did not disclose the specific computer manufacturers that will include the Copilot key, they stated that it would be available on many of the new Windows 11 PCs from their ecosystem partners. Dell Technologies, however, confirmed that the Copilot key will be present on its newest XPS laptops.

The Copilot key will enable users to summon Microsoft's AI-powered assistant with a single click. By engaging with Copilot, individuals can ask questions and receive assistance in various tasks, such as drafting emails. With this feature, Microsoft aims to empower people to participate more easily in the AI transformation and ultimately make 2024 the year of the AI PC.

The new Copilot key, adorned with the Copilot logo, will be located near the keyboard's space bar. This addition is reminiscent of the introduction of the Windows key nearly 30 years ago, which became a staple on modern keyboards. The QWERTY layout, which has been the standard for keyboards since the 1870s, will continue to be the foundation of the modern keyboard.

Microsoft's move to incorporate the Copilot key comes as part of a larger trend among Big Tech companies to integrate AI tools into their products. The Copilot software itself is powered by OpenAI's underlying technology, following Microsoft's substantial $13 billion investment in the AI startup. The company's announcement of the Copilot key also comes just ahead of the upcoming CES tech convention, where additional AI product updates are anticipated from various companies.

Looking ahead, Mehdi hinted at a significant shift coming in 2024 for Microsoft, where AI will be seamlessly woven into Windows, from the system to the silicon to the hardware. This suggests that Microsoft has ambitious plans to further integrate AI technology into its products and revolutionize the way users interact with their PCs. With the introduction of the Copilot key, Microsoft is taking a significant step towards a future where AI is an integral part of everyday computing.