×
Microsoft may let users customize the Copilot key on new keyboards
Written by
Published on
Join our daily newsletter for breaking news, product launches and deals, research breakdowns, and other industry-leading AI coverage
Join Now

Microsoft tests Copilot key customization: Microsoft is exploring new functionality for its recently introduced Copilot key, allowing users to reprogram it to launch other applications within the Windows Insider beta program.

  • The Copilot key, introduced with Microsoft’s Copilot + PCs earlier this year, marks the first change to standard Windows keyboards in over 30 years.
  • Not all new PCs meet the requirements to be considered Copilot + PCs, but some still feature the new key.
  • Microsoft’s Copilot AI faced initial challenges, with major features like Recall being temporarily removed shortly after launch.

Customization options and limitations: The potential new feature aims to provide flexibility for users who may not frequently use Copilot or prefer alternative functionalities.

  • Users could program the Copilot key to serve as a shortcut for launching other tools or programs.
  • Customization is limited to MSIX packaged and signed apps that meet security and privacy requirements.
  • Apps installed via the Microsoft Store or those that ship with Windows are likely to meet the necessary criteria.
  • The Copilot key will only be able to launch apps, not batch files or other executables.

Copilot AI updates and improvements: Microsoft has recently rolled out significant enhancements to its AI assistant, addressing previous issues and introducing new features.

  • The Recall feature, which was initially removed, has been reintroduced as an opt-in function and is disabled by default.
  • These updates are part of the Windows 11 24H2 update, recently released by Microsoft.

Windows Insider program and future prospects: The customization feature is currently being tested within Microsoft’s beta environment, leaving its future availability uncertain.

  • The Windows Insider program serves as a testing ground for new features and functionalities.
  • There is no guarantee that the Copilot key customization will be included in public Windows 11 builds.
  • The feature may undergo further modifications before a potential public release.

Potential impact and user experience: If implemented, the ability to customize the Copilot key could significantly enhance user experience and productivity for Windows users.

  • This feature would provide a solution for users who find the dedicated Copilot key unnecessary or prefer quick access to other applications.
  • The customization option aligns with Microsoft’s efforts to balance innovation with user preferences and needs.
  • However, the limitations on app types and security requirements may restrict the feature’s versatility for some users.

Looking ahead: While the future of this feature remains uncertain, its development reflects Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to adapt and improve the Windows user experience in response to feedback and changing needs.

  • The potential implementation of this feature could influence future keyboard designs and functionality across the PC industry.
  • Microsoft’s approach to balancing AI integration with user choice may set precedents for other tech companies exploring similar technologies.
  • The outcome of this testing phase could provide insights into user preferences regarding AI assistants and dedicated hardware keys.
Don't like Copilot? Microsoft might let you preprogram the new Copilot button

Recent News

Dareesoft Tests AI Road Hazard Detection in Dubai

Dubai tests a vehicle-mounted AI system that detected over 2,000 road hazards in real-time, including potholes and fallen objects on city streets.

Samsung to Unveil Galaxy Ring 2 and AI-powered Wearables in January

Note: Without seeing the headline/article you're referring to, I'm unable to create an appropriate excerpt. Could you please provide the headline or article you'd like me to analyze?

What business leaders can learn from ServiceNow’s $11B ARR milestone

ServiceNow's steady 23% growth rate and high customer retention paint a rare picture of sustainable expansion in enterprise software while larger rivals struggle to maintain momentum.