Everyone Needs AI, Right?

[Shibblet]

Just read an article on ombubuntu.co.uk called: Ubuntu is Getting AI Features in 2026 – Here's What's Planned

I am starting to feel the line between integrated AI, and non-integrated AI becoming blurred.

Why do these major companies (Canonical, Microsoft, etc.) believe that AI needs to be integrated into the OS?

In Microsoft's case, they are forcing users to deal with CoPilot. It "can" be removed, but it's not as simple as clicking on "Uninstall."
I'd imagine that Canonical will allow it to be "opt-out," as in easily removable... but not 100% sure.

Regardless of the integration... what are the reasons for this? I mean, some of us don't want or need an AI companion in our OS... so why force it?

[Snowhog]

IF AI is 'passive'; it doesn't do anything UNLESS the user specifically asks/tells it to; I don't have an issue. IF AI is 'active'; it monitors what is being done by the user and 'anticipates and suggests/provides'; I likely have an issue.

allow it to be "opt-out,"

That means it will be incorporated unless you say 'no'. I much prefer an "opt-in", where you must specifically agree, and if you don't, it isn't.

[Shibblet]

That means it will be incorporated unless you say 'no'. I much prefer an "opt-in", where you must specifically agree, and if you don't, it isn't.

Agreed. I prefer "opt-in" as well... However, "opt-out" is still better than "mandatory." ;-)