Say goodbye to the Copilot key on Windows 11, or at least say hello to the option to make the key open other apps

Microsoft has rolled out its latest Patch Tuesday update for Windows 11, specifically the KB5046617 update, which elevates the operating system to Build 26100.2314 for users on the 24H2 version, also known as the Windows 11 2024 Update. This update not only brings a series of enhancements but also introduces a much-anticipated feature: the ability to reprogram the Copilot key on compatible keyboards.

What you need to know

  • The update encompasses all improvements from the earlier KB5044384 preview update released last month.
  • Users can now configure the Copilot key to launch any application contained within a signed MSIX package, offering greater flexibility for those who may not utilize Copilot.
  • In addition to new features, the update addresses several key issues that have been affecting users.

This month’s update also resolves notable issues, including:

  • [Task Manager (known issue)] Fixed an error where the group count displayed as zero on the Processes tab when “Group by type” was enabled.
  • [Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)] Restored access to the Dev Drive, enhancing functionality for developers.
  • [Internet connection] Addressed connectivity problems for a small number of devices caused by duplicate DHCP options, which previously hindered IPv4 connections on certain networks.

However, a known issue persists for players using Arm devices, as they may encounter difficulties playing Roblox if the game was installed via the Microsoft Store. A workaround is available by installing the game directly from Roblox.com.

To install the update, users can navigate to Windows Update within the Settings app or access it through the Microsoft Update Catalog. For those still using older versions of Windows, such as 23H2 or 22H2, Microsoft provides a support document detailing the latest changes.

<h3 class="article-bodysection” id=”section-windows-11-build-26100-2161-gradual-rollout”>Windows 11 Build 26100.2161: Gradual rollout

  • [Notifications] New! Users can now disable suggestions to turn off notifications from specific apps by selecting the ellipses (…) in the notification or through Settings > System > Notifications.
  • [Wi-Fi password dialog] New! The dialog has been updated to reflect the Windows 11 visual design, accessible via Settings > Network & internet.
  • [Narrator] New! A new shortcut has been added to copy the last spoken content to the clipboard, enhancing accessibility.
  • [Start menu] New! The “All apps” section has been renamed to simply “All.”
  • [ALT + Tab] Fixed an issue causing a black screen on some PCs when switching between windows.

<h3 class="article-bodysection” id=”section-windows-11-build-26100-2161-normal-rollout”>Windows 11 Build 26100.2161: Normal rollout

  • [Web sign-in] Fixed a problem preventing users from signing into their accounts from the web due to unresponsive screens.
  • [Copilot key settings] New! Users can now configure the Copilot key to open different applications or search, provided the app is in a signed MSIX package.
  • [Windows Disk Cleanup app] Improvements have been made to enhance the accuracy of free space estimates.
Winsage
Say goodbye to the Copilot key on Windows 11, or at least say hello to the option to make the key open other apps