Microsoft Corporation is actively implementing a significant AI overhaul across its services. Following a partnership with OpenAI to incorporate GPT-4 into Edge and the introduction of its AI assistant, Copilot, the tech giant is now revamping a long-standing element that has remained unchanged for the past three decades: the Windows/Start button on the Windows keyboard.

In its most recent announcement, Microsoft unveiled its most extensive AI transformation for Windows 11, incorporating the Copilot AI into its Windows Keyboards. Positioned to the right of the space bar, the new Copilot key will activate the Windows Copilot integrated into Windows 11. For context, Copilot is an AI-driven chatbot capable of providing responses to user-generated queries, akin to the functionality of ChatGPT.

Microsoft's hardware partners will showcase Windows 11 computers featuring the Copilot button at the upcoming CES technology conference. Gradually, this feature is anticipated to become mandatory. Users can get their hands on the first devices equipped with the Copilot assistance key starting this month.

Notably, this is the biggest ever change to the Windows Keyboard, especially after Microsoft changed the keyboard layout in 1994 when the company first added the Windows/Start key. The company cites this change as its step towards integrating AI within the Windows keyboards aligns with its plans to bring a significant shift towards a more personal and intelligent computing future where AI will be seamlessly integrated into Windows-from the system to the silicon to the hardware. "This will not only simplify people's computing experience but also amplify it, making 2024 the year of the AI PC," said Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft’s head of Windows and Surface, in a blog post.

Notably, there are further developments on the horizon. Microsoft has been committed to incorporating its AI assistant, Copilot, into diverse services throughout 2023, and the introduction of the Copilot key is just a single element of the broader AI-driven transformations slated for Windows in 2024. Anticipate additional alterations, particularly for Windows PCs, as Microsoft emphasizes that these changes are a response to user feedback.

As a noteworthy aspect of its AI advancements, Microsoft Copilot has entered into a partnership with Suno, an AI music creation platform. This collaboration empowers Copilot to generate AI-composed songs in response to straightforward text prompts. The integration of music composition capabilities through this collaboration has expanded Copilot's functionalities. Users can now leverage Microsoft Edge to craft personalized songs and tailor them to their individual preferences.

Furthermore, Microsoft is deeply involved in a Windows "refresh" that will prominently feature new AI capabilities, seamlessly incorporating AI into different facets of its software and services. Notably, Microsoft has rebranded its Edge browser, emphasizing its dedication to AI advancements by naming it 'AI Browsers'.