Microsoft removes Copilot key remapping feature in Windows 11

Recently, an update to Windows 11’s preview builds added an anticipated feature that allows users with devices that have a physical Copilot key to remap it for different applications. However, if you have recently updated to the latest Beta version and can’t locate this feature, it’s because Microsoft has temporarily withdrawn it.

According to the updated release notes for build 22635.4291, Microsoft confirmed the removal of the Copilot key remapping function due to identified bugs. The good news is that this feature is not completely eliminated; Microsoft intends to reintroduce it in a subsequent update. The changelog states:

[ADDED] The ability to configure the Copilot key, which had begun distribution with build 22635.4225, has been temporarily suspended to fix some issues and enhance the user experience. We aim to restore it shortly.

When the remapping ability is reinstated, users will be able to assign the Copilot key to launch any MSIX application that is both signed and packaged. This option will be found in Settings > Personalization > Text Input > Customize Copilot Key on Keyboard, and by default, it will still link to Copilot until users choose to modify it.

It’s important to note that this feature is exclusively available on devices equipped with a physical Copilot key, such as the new Copilot+ PCs, including the Surface Laptop 7. Attempting to adjust this setting on devices without a Copilot key will have no effect.

In addition to re-establishing the original remapping functionalities from build 22635.4225, Microsoft has also mentioned plans for “additional improvements to this experience.”However, specifics on these enhancements are currently unclear. It would be beneficial for users if they could launch any application, not just the packaged MSIX apps, but Microsoft maintains this limitation is in place to ensure that the mapped applications adhere to security and privacy standards to protect users.

Source