I turned Windows 11’s useless Copilot key into a screenshot button, here’s how

Microsoft’s ambitious push for its dedicated Copilot key on laptops has taken an unexpected turn. Initially, the tech giant aggressively promoted this feature to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), creating a sense of urgency around the integration of the Copilot key. However, as Microsoft quietly steps back from its “mandatory” branding strategy, many users find themselves with a physical button that remains largely underutilized.

For instance, my new Dell XPS 14 has the Copilot button awkwardly positioned between the Alt and arrow keys, making it a nuisance while navigating through Excel sheets. Over time, I learned to navigate around it, almost forgetting its presence. Yet, having invested in this laptop, I was eager to reclaim the functionality of the Copilot key. Fortunately, Microsoft has responded to user feedback, offering a way to repurpose this button for more practical uses.

How to Change the Copilot Key Function in Windows Settings

For those who prefer not to delve into third-party software, Windows 11 provides a straightforward method to customize the Copilot key’s functionality. Simply navigate to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Keyboard and locate the option to customize the Copilot key. This allows you to assign it to various functions, such as launching Windows Search, acting as the Right Ctrl or Context Menu key, or directing it to any installed applications. Notably, the Right Ctrl and Context Menu options were introduced with the September 2026 optional update, making them accessible in the upcoming October Patch Tuesday update.

As a starting point, I mapped the key to launch YouTube Music, allowing me to keep it handy without cluttering my Taskbar. For those looking to explore further, there are additional customization options available.

Using Microsoft PowerToys to Customize the Copilot Key

For a more tailored experience, consider downloading Microsoft PowerToys from the Microsoft Store. By utilizing the Keyboard Manager feature, you can transform the Copilot key into a valuable shortcut for your workflow.

• Instant Screenshots: If the screenshot button is inconveniently placed, map the Copilot key to Win + Shift + S for quick access to screen captures.
• Clipboard History: Streamline your clipboard management by assigning Win + V to the Copilot key, making it easier to recall copied content throughout your day.
• Everything Search Launcher: Enhance your search capabilities by pointing the Copilot key to the Everything app by Voidtools, providing a more robust search experience.
• Mute Microphone: Remap the key to Win + Alt + K for quick microphone muting during calls, allowing for discreet moments without fumbling for controls.

How to use PowerToys Keyboard Manager to customize the Copilot key

1. Install Microsoft PowerToys from the Microsoft Store or GitHub.
2. Open PowerToys, select Keyboard Manager from the sidebar, and ensure it is activated.
3. Click on Remap a shortcut (avoid using the “Remap a key” option).
4. In the Physical Shortcut column, click Select and press your Copilot key, which should display as Win + Shift + F23.
5. In the Mapped To column, choose your desired action.
6. Click OK in the top-right corner to save and apply the changes immediately.

• To map a system shortcut: Select Key/Shortcut and press the desired hotkey (e.g., Win + Shift + S for screenshots or Win + V for clipboard history).
• To open a program: Set the action type to Start App and browse to the program’s executable file (e.g., point to wt.exe for Windows Terminal).

Best Custom Macros and Shortcuts to Replace Your Copilot Key

Customization doesn’t have to be limited to productivity; there are also entertaining ways to utilize the Copilot key. For gamers, remapping it in Discord for Push-to-Talk or deafen toggle can enhance the gaming experience. Alternatively, mapping it to Alt + F10 for Instant Replay in the NVIDIA app allows for seamless capture of memorable gaming moments.

1. Open the app you wish to configure (e.g., Discord, the NVIDIA app, or a PC game).
2. Navigate to the app’s Keybinds or Controls settings page.
3. Set a new keybind (e.g., for Push-to-Talk, Deafen, or Instant Replay Capture).
4. Press the physical Copilot key. If it doesn’t register, remap it to a spare key like F24 in PowerToys first, then use it here.

Another fun option is to map the key to Win +., which opens the native emoji and GIF picker.

1. Open PowerToys and select Keyboard Manager from the left sidebar.
2. Click Remap a shortcut (not “Remap a key”).
3. In the Physical Shortcut column, click Select and press your Copilot key, capturing it as Win + Shift + F23. Click OK.
4. In the Mapped To Column, select Key/Shortcut from the dropdown, then click Select.
5. Press Win +. (or Win + 😉 to set the emoji picker hotkey. Click OK.
6. Click OK in the top-right corner to save. Your Copilot key will now instantly open the Windows emoji, GIF, and kaomoji picker.

Experimenting with PowerToys to assign various functions to the Copilot key can lead to surprising discoveries. Even a simple mapping to launch Sticky Notes can breathe new life into a seemingly redundant key. Interestingly, for those who prefer the key to remain inactive, a “Do nothing” option is anticipated in a future Windows 11 update.