Earlier in January, Microsoft made a statement that the dedicated Copilot key won't be required for devices to pass Windows 11 certification. Despite that, Intel points that the key is a mandatory requirement for "new era PCs".
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Over the past few months, leading tech companies including Intel, Microsoft, Qualcomm, and AMD have been promoting the concept of "AI PCs" as the industry moves towards integrating more AI-powered features into Windows. Intel has started sharing Microsoft's guidelines for OEMs to create AI-powered PCs, one of which includes adding a dedicated Copilot key.
Microsoft's goal is to collaborate with hardware and software partners to bring the concept of an AI PC to life. This involves incorporating a neural processing unit (NPU), the latest CPUs, and GPUs into the system. The introduction of the Copilot key is considered a significant change to Windows keyboards after 30 years.
Although certain new laptops like Asus's ROG Zephyrus come with the latest Intel Core Ultra chips, they do not meet Microsoft's strict requirements for an AI PC without a Copilot key. Despite this, Intel argues that these laptops still qualify as AI PCs.
Todd Lewellen, Intel's head of PC ecosystem, emphasizes that their AI PCs feature a Core Ultra processor and an integrated neural processor that enables a wide range of AI capabilities and functions. While some PCs may not have a physical Copilot key, they will incorporate an NPU.
Intel and Microsoft are encouraging OEMs to comply with Microsoft's requirements and potentially introduce the new key. It is possible that the ASUS laptop was released before Microsoft finalized its specifications for an AI PC.
At CES 2024, Dell simply added Copilot stickers to their devices, suggesting that the additional key requirement was a last-minute inclusion. The benefits that OEMs will receive for adhering to Microsoft's AI PC regulations remain unclear.
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So, what are the implications of owning an AI – powered PC ??? – How about zero privacy !!! –