Microsoft continues to integrate AI features into Windows, and one of the notable additions in recent updates is the Copilot key on new Windows keyboards. The Copilot key is designed to provide quick access to Microsoft Copilot, allowing users to instantly launch the AI assistant for tasks such as searching information, summarizing content, generating text, or adjusting system settings.
While many newer keyboards include a dedicated Copilot key, older keyboards typically do not have this button. Fortunately, Windows 11 version 25H2 allows users to add or remap a Copilot key using built-in tools and keyboard customization utilities. This means you can assign an existing key or key combination to launch Copilot quickly.
In this guide, we will walk you through different methods to add or remap a Copilot key on your Windows 11 (25H2) keyboard so you can access Microsoft Copilot more conveniently.
How to Add or Remap a Copilot Key on Your Windows 11
Follow the methods below to assign a dedicated key or shortcut for launching Copilot.
1. Use Windows Settings to Customize the Copilot Key
Windows 11 version 25H2 may allow certain keyboards with a Copilot key to change its behavior through the Settings app.
- Press Windows + I on your keyboard to open the Settings app.
- Click Personalization in the left sidebar.
- Select Text input or Keyboard depending on your system configuration.
- Locate the Copilot key customization option.
- Choose what the Copilot key should do when pressed.
- Select Launch Copilot if you want the key to open Microsoft Copilot.
- Close the Settings app after saving the changes.
If your keyboard includes a dedicated Copilot key, this option allows you to adjust its functionality.
2. Remap a Key to Launch Copilot Using Microsoft PowerToys
Microsoft PowerToys provides a powerful tool called Keyboard Manager that allows you to remap keys and create custom shortcuts.
- Download and install Microsoft PowerToys from the official Microsoft website if it is not already installed.
- Launch PowerToys from the Start menu.
- Select Keyboard Manager from the left sidebar.
- Click Remap a key.
- Click the + Add key remapping button.
- Under the Physical Key column, choose the key you want to repurpose.
- Under the Mapped To column, select a keyboard shortcut.
- Enter the shortcut Windows + C, which opens Copilot in Windows 11.
- Click OK to apply the changes.
- Confirm the remapping when prompted.
After applying the mapping, pressing the selected key will launch Microsoft Copilot.
3. Create a Custom Shortcut to Open Copilot
You can also create a keyboard shortcut that launches Copilot through a desktop shortcut.
- Right-click on the Desktop.
- Select New and then click Shortcut.
- In the location field, type: microsoft-edge:///?ux=copilot
- Click Next.
- Name the shortcut Copilot.
- Click Finish.
- Right-click the newly created shortcut and select Properties.
- Click the Shortcut key field.
- Press the key combination you want to use, such as Ctrl + Alt + C.
- Click Apply, then OK.
You can now open Copilot using the assigned keyboard shortcut.
4. Use Third-Party Keyboard Software
Some keyboards include customization software that allows you to assign functions to specific keys.
- Install the software provided by your keyboard manufacturer.
- Open the keyboard configuration software.
- Locate the key remapping or macro settings.
- Choose the key you want to modify.
- Assign the action to open Copilot using the Windows + C shortcut or a custom command.
- Save the configuration.
This method is particularly useful for gaming keyboards that support advanced key customization.
Conclusion
The Copilot key is designed to make accessing Microsoft Copilot faster and more convenient in Windows 11 version 25H2. Even if your keyboard does not include a dedicated Copilot key, you can still create one by remapping an existing key or assigning a custom shortcut.
Using Windows Settings, Microsoft PowerToys, desktop shortcuts, or keyboard manufacturer software, you can easily configure a key that launches Copilot instantly. Once set up, the Copilot key can help you access AI-powered assistance quickly, making everyday tasks in Windows more efficient and streamlined.