The latest Windows 11 update for Insiders makes it possible reassign the Copilot key for other functions beyond the use of an artificial intelligence assistant. Good news because this is a change requested by testers and we hope it will arrive in the stable channel soon, in Windows 11 24H2 or later.

Microsoft maintains full control over the Windows computing channel. Or in other words, it controls about 85% of the PC market. This is the only way to understand the imposition of the Copilot key for Windows, which the vast majority of users consider unnecessary, but with which Microsoft wants to promote its AI services. As usual using the Windows monopoly.

A co-pilot key, at least for something else more useful

By default, any Windows PC that has one of these hardkeys installed will launch the Copilot AI application when pressed. Here are the changes starting with Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4225 (beta channel) where testers will be able to remap the key to launch another application.

Users can customize which app the Copilot key launches by opening the Settings app and going to the Text Input area in the Personalization area. Options are limited at this time.

The key can only be configured to run applications that are packaged and signed in MSIX format because, according to Microsoft, this means “the app meets security and privacy requirements to keep customers safe”. Let’s hope that in the future the options are not limited to Microsoft’s own apps (like Office, Edge or OneDrive), because that would be from coals to fire…

Microsoft responded to criticism with the example that 30 years ago there was an arrival ‘Windows key’. It certainly made it possible to open applications or Windows functions faster, although it is not essential to use keyboard shortcuts either. In any case, We don’t think the Copilot key is that useful and in any case, if its use can be personalized more than better. We’ll see when, how and for how many tools he can achieve a stable channel.