Talking to Copilot Isn't the Future of Windows PCs

The Future of Work and AI Interaction

Imagine being in a bustling office, surrounded by colleagues engaged in conversations. You're at your desk, asking Copilot a question: "How do I win the Northwind account?" Suddenly, your boss approaches, notices you speaking to an AI, and gives you a look. What does that look mean? Is it condescending, approving, or just friendly? How do you feel after receiving such a glance? Do you feel like part of the team, or do you wonder if you should have known better?

This scenario could become a reality if Microsoft has its way. The company's Windows chief is pushing for voice chats with Copilot to become a common practice. This idea isn't new; it echoes back to the days of Microsoft Cortana and Windows 10. But now, the question is whether we are ready to openly chat with an AI, or will this be something we feel embarrassed about doing?

Microsoft recently released a video interview with Pavan Davuluri, head of the Windows + Devices team. In the interview, he outlined what Microsoft sees as the future of Windows, focusing heavily on AI and cloud technology. However, the more intriguing discussion centers around cultural shifts. Microsoft has always believed in "modalities," which involve interacting with computers through various means—keyboard, mouse, touch, stylus, eye tracking, and voice. Talking to your PC would represent a significant cultural change.

In another video describing Windows in 2030, corporate vice-president David Weston talks about replacing mice and keyboards with voice input. Microsoft’s vision is one of voice and vision, with Copilot Vision helping users plan, strategize, and perform tasks through oral communication. Even with earbuds on, others nearby might hear these interactions.

Davuluri mentioned the potential for multimodal interactions, where users can speak to their computer while also writing, inking, or interacting with others. This concept is still in its early stages, but it represents a shift in how we interact with technology.

The Cultural Hurdles of Talking to AI

Historically, people haven’t talked to AI at work. Around the launch of Windows 10, I visited Nuance Software’s office in Silicon Valley. They had Dragon Software, which was the leading dictation application for Windows at the time. Despite the product’s potential, no one was using it. It was a place where you'd expect people to demonstrate their own software, but no one did.

Since then, I've been in many offices and have never heard anyone talking to Cortana, Copilot, or even ChatGPT. Why? In a world dominated by social media, where people constantly judge each other based on actions, language, and politics, it's easier to remain quiet than to loudly proclaim what you're working on or where you need help. Calling an AI by a name or asking it to use a specific title can be seen as odd or even risky.

Using AI at work can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it might impress management, who want employees to leverage AI tools for productivity. On the other hand, relying too much on AI could hinder career advancement.

Where Does AI Fit In?

Microsoft’s Cortana was transformed into a meme, and its capabilities were limited. Over time, the performative aspect and the fact that the Halo team turned Cortana into a villain contributed to its decline. However, one major change since Cortana’s debut is the rise of remote work.

At home, people have the freedom to talk to Copilot or ChatGPT without worrying about judgment. Remote jobs often evaluate workers based on performance rather than the methods they use. This environment is ideal for Microsoft’s vision of the future.

Ironically, Microsoft is reportedly joining the “return to office” movement, requiring employees to work at least three days a week in Redmond. This raises questions about how many employees would feel comfortable talking to Copilot in an office setting, risking disturbing coworkers and drawing attention from their boss.

Many businesses still lack full support for AI, making it challenging for Microsoft’s vision to take hold. If Microsoft truly believes workers should chat with Copilot, it might need to advocate more for remote work. After all, if people are holding conversations with AI therapists and girlfriends, they’re not doing it where their boss can overhear. Why should Copilot be any different?