Windows keyboards to get a new dedicated Copilot key; here’s what you need to know

2023 may have drawn to a close, but the push towards AI is strong as ever. Last year, as a part of its foray into AI, Microsoft introduced Copilot AI assistant. The assistant can do everything from generating text and images to surfing the web to answer one’s queries, write code or create citations, make spreadsheets, and more. This year, Microsoft is taking things up a notch, and adding a dedicated Copilot key to the Windows keyboard – its first major change in over 30 years.

What is the Copilot key and why you should pay attention to it

Simply dubbed the “Copilot key,” it will replace the menu or application key on the keyboard and will be placed next to the right-hand Alt-key on the keyboard. This is the same place where Microsoft had added a dedicated Office key in 2019. Bear in mind though, that this placement could vary across markets globally.

For those unaware, to launch Copilot up until now, one had to hit Windows and “C” on their keyboard. Now, hitting the Copilot key will launch a ChatGPT-like AI-powered assistant to help with users’ everyday tasks.

The new Copilot key is expected to debut first on the new Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 devices, which are currently rumoured to be launching in spring.  Now, should Windows Copilot happen to not be available in your region as of yet, the Copilot key will launch Windows Search instead.

However, while the key has been confirmed, just which brands that manufacture Windows laptops and desktops will include the key on their devices hasn’t been confirmed officially. The same will presumably be done at Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024, which starts on January 9.

ALSO READ: Windows 12: What to expect from Microsoft’s next major update

Microsoft is reportedly working on a major overhaul for its Windows operating system, with Windows 12 expected to be launched sometime early this year. The new OS is expected to feature even more AI capabilities.