Microsoft’s Copilot Key to Launch Apps on Windows 11 Soon

Microsoft is rolling out a new feature in Windows 11 that will allow users to customize the function of the Copilot key, a new addition to Windows keyboards that started shipping earlier this year. The Copilot key, initially configured to launch Microsoft’s AI assistant, Copilot, can now be reassigned to launch other applications in the latest beta build of Windows 11.

Customizing the Copilot Key

The Copilot key was introduced as part of Microsoft’s effort to make its AI assistant, Copilot, more accessible to users. However, with the new customization feature available to Windows 11 beta testers, users can assign this key to launch any app that meets Microsoft’s security standards. According to a blog post from the Windows Insider team, the key can be reprogrammed to open any MSIX-packaged and signed application, ensuring that the app aligns with privacy and security requirements.

This update offers flexibility for users who may not rely heavily on Microsoft’s Copilot app. By allowing the key to be reassigned, Microsoft is giving users more control over their keyboard experience. For devices that have Copilot installed, the key will continue to launch the AI assistant until a user selects a different app to link with the key.

The Copilot key can now be customized to launch other apps on Windows 11. Image: Microsoft

A Big Change to Windows Keyboards

The Copilot key represents the most significant change to Windows keyboards in 30 years. Earlier this year, Microsoft began shipping Copilot Plus PCs, which feature this key as a standard part of the layout. The key is meant to streamline access to Microsoft’s AI assistant, encouraging users to explore the capabilities of Copilot.

However, in a recent Windows 11 update (24H2), Microsoft turned Copilot into a web app, limiting its integration with the system settings. This change makes it less useful for controlling Windows settings, such as toggling dark mode or adjusting other system preferences directly from the AI assistant. How Microsoft plans to evolve Copilot’s role within the Windows ecosystem remains unclear, but this latest move to allow key customization suggests more flexibility for users.

A Step Toward More Keyboard Customization

The ability to reassign the Copilot key is reminiscent of how the Windows key can be used to launch shortcuts or other system features. Microsoft seems to be experimenting with making the Copilot key serve a similar function, allowing users to personalize their workflow based on their needs.

For now, this feature is limited to beta testers of Windows 11, but it is expected to be available to all users in the coming months. As more Windows 11 devices adopt the Copilot key, this customization feature could become a popular tool for users looking to optimize their productivity.

Conclusion

Microsoft’s move to let users customize the Copilot key is part of its broader push to integrate AI into Windows 11 while offering users more control over their system. By allowing this key to be reprogrammed, Microsoft is acknowledging that not all users will prioritize Copilot and are looking for more customization options. While the future of Copilot in Windows 11 is still uncertain, this new feature adds a layer of flexibility that could help bridge the gap between AI integration and user preferences.

Stay tuned for more updates on when this feature will be widely available in upcoming Windows 11 updates.