Computers with artificial intelligence are a reality and the Copilot key will be key

Intel, Microsoft, Qualcomm and AMD have been insisting for months on the idea of a computer with built-in artificial intelligence as we approach more AI-powered features in Windows.

Microsoft Copilot DOWNLOAD

Although we are still waiting to learn the details of Microsoft’s big plans for AI in Windows, Intel has started sharing Microsoft’s requirements for OEMs to build an AI PC, and one of the main requirements is that an AI PC must have Microsoft’s Copilot key.

Microsoft wants its OEM partners to provide a combination of hardware and software for its idea of an AI-powered PC. This includes a system with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU), the latest CPUs and GPUs, and access to Copilot. You will also need to have the new Copilot key that Microsoft announced earlier this year.

Without Copilot key you are not an AI PC

This requirement means that some latest generation laptops, with the new Intel Core Ultra chips, are not technically AI PCs in the eyes of Microsoft’s strict requirements because they do not have the Copilot key.

I’m sure both Intel and Microsoft expect original equipment manufacturers to simply adhere to Microsoft’s requirements and add the Copilot key over time.

However, it is still unclear what OEMs will get in return for adhering to Microsoft’s definition of AI-powered PCs. Beyond the requirements for AI-powered PCs, Intel is also expanding its AI-powered PC acceleration program that it launched in October.

It is designed to get software developers interested in AI-based features for their applications, and it is now being expanded to reach smaller developers through an AI PC developer program.

Microsoft Copilot DOWNLOAD

Microsoft will hold an event on AI and Surface on May 20th, where CEO Satya Nadella will present the company’s vision on AI hardware and software.