Microsoft’s introduction of a dedicated Copilot key with its PCs in 2024 aimed to enhance the company’s AI branding. Initially, the concept revolved around keeping Copilot accessible through this key, activating it with a simple press. However, as developments unfolded, the strategy shifted.
Now, Copilot is conveniently pinned to the Taskbar as a web app, rendering the dedicated key less essential. Users can easily access Copilot from the Taskbar, system tray, or Start menu, leading many to ponder the utility of the now seemingly redundant key.
At YTECHB, we recently acquired a Copilot+ PC and found ourselves contemplating the fate of this underutilized key. Thankfully, there’s a way to customize it to launch another application or initiate Windows Search. Let’s explore the available options.
Changing Copilot Key Behavior on Windows 11 24H2
Currently, the customization options for the Copilot key in Windows 11 are somewhat limited, allowing only two specific configurations. To access these settings, navigate to Settings >> Personalization >> Text Inputs.
Once there, expand the Customize Copilot key on the Keyboard option and select Search from the list. This adjustment will enable the Copilot key to launch Windows Search upon activation.
If you prefer to repurpose the key for launching an application, select the Custom option. A new window will appear, displaying all available apps. Choose your desired app and click Select.
After this configuration, pressing the Copilot key will directly launch the selected application instead of Copilot.
Can You Configure the Copilot Key to Open Any App?
Unfortunately, the customization feature is not as flexible as one might hope. It only permits the launching of signed MSIX packages, meaning third-party applications will not appear in the selection list. Additionally, the absence of a browsing option limits your choices to the pre-listed applications.
In our testing, we found that only system apps were available, indicating a narrow range of options. For those seeking greater flexibility, utilizing a third-party key binding tool like PowerToys can facilitate remapping shortcuts to launch applications. While this method is slightly more complex than Microsoft’s built-in settings, it allows for a more personalized experience.
Moreover, if you’re not already using PowerToys, you might be missing out on a host of features that could enhance your Windows 11 experience, such as Mouse Sharing, File Explorer adjustments, and Peek functionalities. Microsoft is also experimenting with an option to open a context menu using the Copilot key, and we will continue to monitor this development for updates.
Can You Remap Keys in Windows 11?
Yes, remapping keys in Windows 11 is indeed possible. Microsoft provides a dedicated guide on how to remap keys on your PC, with PowerToys being the recommended tool for this purpose. This allows users to repurpose any unused keys for more practical functions.
It’s encouraging to see that there is a way to make the Copilot key serve a more useful purpose than its original design intended. Not every user may embrace Copilot, and the Copilot+ PC may not be the go-to choice for everyone unless AI CPUs become the standard in Windows PCs.
The potential for a context menu activation is an exciting prospect, and we will keep a close eye on upcoming builds to provide timely updates on this feature.
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