Microsoft is working on a new feature that will allow Windows 11 users to personalize the function of the Copilot key, which has recently started appearing on new laptops and keyboards. Currently, the Copilot key is set to launch Microsoft’s Copilot app by default, but the company is now testing the option to use it to open other apps instead.

A recent beta version of Windows 11 introduces this customization, and it’s available for testers now. According to the Windows Insider team, “You can configure the Copilot key to launch an app that is MSIX packaged and signed, ensuring it meets security and privacy standards to protect users.” However, if a user hasn’t made any changes, the key will still launch the Copilot app on supported devices.

This Copilot key marks the first significant change to Windows keyboards in three decades and is part of Microsoft’s strategy to promote its AI assistant.

Earlier this year, new Copilot Plus PCs began shipping with the key. Interestingly, Microsoft made Copilot less integrated into Windows 11 in the latest 24H2 update, turning it into a web app. This web-based Copilot no longer controls system settings like dark mode, limiting its functionality compared to earlier versions.

It’s still unclear how Microsoft plans to develop the Copilot experience in the future, or whether the Copilot key could evolve into something similar to the Windows key, allowing for more shortcuts and broader use.

Since the ability to customize the Copilot key is already available to beta testers, it’s likely that this feature will be rolled out to all Windows 11 users in the near future.

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