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How to Change the Copilot Key Function in Windows 11

Use Windows 11 Keyboard settings to choose an action for the dedicated Copilot key. Learn what to check if the setting is missing or the change does not take effect.
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To change what the dedicated Copilot key does, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Keyboard > Customize Copilot key on keyboard, then choose an action available on your PC. The choices can vary with your account, installed apps and device configuration.

Change the dedicated Copilot key in Settings

  1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Bluetooth & devices > Keyboard.
  3. Select Customize Copilot key on keyboard.
  4. Choose one of the actions displayed on your PC.

Microsoft lists examples including Search, Microsoft Copilot, Custom and Copilot, but not every PC will show the same options. Availability may depend on account settings, installed apps and device configuration. See Microsoft’s screen-reader instructions for managing Copilot settings and its Windows keyboard-shortcut reference.

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If the Copilot key setting is missing

The setting applies to a physical, dedicated Copilot key; it will not appear on every Windows keyboard. Some hardware replaces the Right Ctrl or Context menu key with a Copilot key, and implementations can vary by manufacturer, keyboard layout and hardware configuration. Microsoft says, “Copilot key implementations may vary across keyboard layouts and hardware configurations.” Check your PC maker’s support documentation if the Windows option is unavailable or the key behaves differently than expected. Microsoft’s Copilot-key guidance advises using either the Windows setting or an OEM remapping option, not both.

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Know which Copilot control you are changing

The physical Copilot key

The Keyboard settings page changes the action assigned to the dedicated physical key, when your PC provides that setting.

#1 Best Overall
Kensington KB535 Wireless Keyboard, Bluetooth & 2.4GHz Connection, Full-Size Layout, Quiet Scissor-Switch Keys, Programmable, Copilot Hotkey, Compatible with Windows, Black (K75408NA)
  • Scissor-Switch Keys - Provide a quiet and responsive feel, perfect for shared spaces. Designed for comfort, these keys reduce fatigue and ensure smooth, accurate typing, whether you are composing emails, writing reports, or gaming
  • Full-Size Layout - Featuring a full-size ANSI layout with 108 keys, this keyboard is ideal for both professional and casual use. The spacious design includes a number pad for efficient data entry and function keys to support multitasking
  • Secure Multi-Device Connectivity - Connect up to 4 devices: 3 via Bluetooth 5.4 and 1 with the 2.4GHz USB receiver, featuring 128-bit AES encryption and a 10m range
  • 16 Programmable Keys + Copilot AI Key - Tailor your keyboard to optimize workflows for complex tasks or gaming with 15 programmable keys, a dedicated Copilot AI key*, and Function Lock. Quickly access macros and key commands to support effortless multitasking. *Windows only
  • Rechargeable 500mAh Battery - Supports up to 3 months of productivity with a single charge.* Includes USB-A to USB-C charging cable. *Battery life may vary based on usage

The Win+C shortcut

Win+C is a separate keyboard shortcut, not another name for the physical key. Microsoft documents its customization under Settings > Personalization > Text input > Customize Copilot key on keyboard; the available behavior can depend on the Windows configuration. Consult Microsoft’s shortcut reference for the documented route.

How the Copilot app opens

The Copilot app has its own preference: open Copilot > Account > Settings > Copilot Keyboard Shortcuts to choose whether the app shortcut opens the full application or a smaller quick view. This changes the app’s launch presentation, not the Windows action assigned to the physical key. See Microsoft’s Copilot for Windows getting-started guide.

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Kensington KB415 USB-C Wired Compact Keyboard, Quiet Scissor-Switch Keys, Programmable, Copilot Hotkey, Compatible with Windows, Black (K75411NA)
  • Compact Design with Reliable Wired Connection - Maximize your workspace with a compact layout featuring 86 essential keys, while ensuring zero latency performance. Equipped with a 5ft (1.5m) wired USB-C connection, this keyboard delivers uninterrupted performance in demanding environments.
  • 16 programmable Keys + Copilot AI Key - Customize your keyboard to streamline demanding workflows or enhance your gaming experience. With 16 programmable keys, a dedicated Copilot AI key*, and Function Lock, you can instantly access macros and key commands for seamless multitasking. *Windows only
  • Scissor-Switch Keys - provide a quiet and responsive feel, perfect for shared spaces. Designed for comfort, these keys help reduce fatigue and ensure smooth, accurate typing.
  • LED Indicator for Status Updates - Status light for Caps Lock provides instant visibility into your keyboard's current settings
  • Sustainability Attributes - The plastic used in the outer case of this keyboard is made with 42% post- consumer recycled (PCR) content and it is shipped in FSC certified packaging
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If your selection seems ineffective

  • Check the taskbar Copilot setting. Microsoft’s screen-reader instructions state that enabling Copilot in Taskbar settings overrides the choice under Customize Copilot key on keyboard. Review that setting if the key does not follow your selection.
  • Avoid duplicate remapping. If your PC maker provides a Copilot-key remapping control, use that or the Windows setting, rather than configuring both.
  • Test shortcuts after choosing Right Ctrl. Microsoft warns that some shortcuts using physical Left Shift and Right Ctrl may not work consistently on every keyboard when the Copilot key is mapped to Right Ctrl. It suggests using physical Right Shift for those combinations.

For further detail, see Microsoft’s Copilot settings instructions and device guidance.

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Best Value
Kensington KB515 USB-C Wired Keyboard, QWERTY Full-Size Layout, Quiet Scissor-Switch Keys, Programmable, Copilot Hotkey, USB-A Adapter Included, Compatible with Windows, Black (K75410NA)
  • Scissor-Switch Keys - Provide a quiet and responsive feel, perfect for shared spaces. Designed for comfort, these keys reduce fatigue and ensure smooth, accurate typing, whether you are composing emails, writing reports, or gaming
  • Full-Size Layout - Featuring a full-size ANSI layout with 108 keys, this keyboard is ideal for both professional and casual use. The spacious design includes a number pad for efficient data entry and function keys to support multitasking
  • 16 Programmable Keys + Copilot AI Key - Tailor your keyboard to optimize workflows for complex tasks or gaming with 15 programmable keys, a dedicated Copilot AI key*, and Function Lock. Quickly access macros and key commands to support effortless multitasking. *Windows only
  • Reliable Wired Connection for Zero Latency Performance - Delivering high-speed performance in demanding environments, this keyboard features a 5ft (1.5m) wired connection (USB-C with tethered USB-A adapter) that ensures zero lag
  • Sustainability Attributes - The plastic used in the outer case of this keyboard is made with 42% post- consumer recycled (PCR) content and it is shipped in FSC certified packaging
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Adesso WKB-7500CB Wireless Ergonomic Keyboard and Mouse Combo, Black
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  • Scissor switch technology: Low-profile scissor switch keys provide a stable typing mechanism that delivers tactile feedback for accurate data entry and ensure a quiet typing environment, making this device suitable for shared workspaces or home offices where noise minimization is a priority.
  • Dedicated Copilot AI hotkey: A specialized hotkey is integrated directly into the layout to provide immediate access to artificial intelligence assistance, allowing users to quickly launch tools for code generation, writing support, or information retrieval without navigating through complex software menus.
  • Wireless connectivity and range: Both the keyboard and the 6-button optical mouse connect to the computer using a single 2.4 GHz USB receiver, which helps organize desk space by eliminating cables and maintains a consistent signal connection up to a range of 30 feet for flexible workstation arrangements.
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Kensington KB435 Wireless Compact Keyboard, Bluetooth & 2.4GHz Connection, Quiet Scissor-Switch Keys, Programmable, Copilot Hotkey, Compatible with Windows, Black (K75409NA)
  • Scissor-Switch Keys - Provide a quiet and responsive feel, perfect for shared spaces. Designed for comfort, these keys reduce fatigue and ensure smooth, accurate typing, whether you are composing emails, writing reports, or gaming
  • Compact Design for Portability - Easy to carry, the compact design is an ideal choice for remote workers who work on-the-move. Seamlessly transition between various locations without sacrificing comfort or functionality.
  • 15 Programmable Keys + Copilot AI Key - Tailor your keyboard to optimize workflows for complex tasks or gaming with 15 programmable keys, a dedicated Copilot AI key*, and Function Lock. Quickly access macros and key commands to support effortless multitasking. *Windows only
  • Secure Multi-Device Connectivity - Connect up to 4 devices: 3 via Bluetooth 5.4 and 1 with the 2.4GHz USB receiver, featuring 128-bit AES encryption and a 10m range
  • Rechargeable 500mAh Battery - Supports up to 3 months of productivity with a single charge.* Includes USB-A to USB-C charging cable. *Battery life may vary based on usage

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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