The Future of Operating Systems: A Shift Towards AI
Support for the widely-used operating system, Windows 10, has been officially terminated. This decision essentially forces users to either pay extra for crucial security updates for their existing software or upgrade to the latest version. The catch, however, is that the new version, Windows 11, is incompatible with a significant number of devices. This incompatibility could lead to a surge in electronic waste as older but still functional computers are discarded in favor of new ones.
A New Era of AI-Driven PCs
Things are set to take a more dramatic turn. The creators of the operating system are introducing a range of features powered by artificial intelligence (AI) that will transform existing Windows 11 systems into full-on AI-driven computers. These computers will be managed by an AI assistant referred to as Copilot. One of the high-ranking executives described the update as the next big evolution where AI becomes a core part of everyday user experiences.
They believe they are on the verge of a significant shift where AI becomes an integral part of the hundreds of millions of experiences that people use every day. The ultimate vision is to redesign the entire operating system around AI, essentially creating a genuine AI PC.
AI Updates and User Experience
Users who find this concept daunting might see the timing of these AI updates as more than coincidental. As Windows 10 users are being pushed towards this new version, they are essentially being led towards an unavoidable AI trap. Once they fall into this trap, they would have to relinquish control and let the tech dominate their user experience.
The most noticeable change is that Copilot will now be placed at the center of the taskbar, arguably the most significant part of a user's screen. This is a representation of how the creators of the operating system want to make AI the heart of the user experience.
Voice Controls and AI Integration
This drastic shift is reliant on users' willingness to converse with their computer, meaning they would have to speak out loud. The features of Copilot will be triggered by the phrase "Hey, Copilot!" which will serve as an additional input method for the computer. The reasoning behind voice controls might seem dubious, but it is allegedly supported by data indicating that users spend billions of minutes speaking during virtual meetings. Thus, they are already accustomed to talking on the computer, right?
Another feature, known as Copilot Vision, allows the AI to observe everything that happens on your screen. This feature is designed to provide context-based recommendations and tips. It complements Copilot Actions, which enables the AI assistant to perform tasks on your computer, such as organizing folders or searching for information.
Privacy Concerns and Future Developments
It is needless to say, this level of access given to the AI raises concerns about privacy. Of course, the user's permission is required. However, this might be a tough sell, considering past experiences with AI features that faced backlash due to glaring security flaws.
For now, the features of Copilot are optional, but it is possible that this could change in the future. Remember when users were compelled to use the virtual assistant, Cortana, when Windows 10 was released? It also had voice controls and numerous privacy issues. Of course, this time, things will be different.