Microsoft finally lets you fix the worst key on your keyboard

The dedicated Copilot key on your PC is finally useful. Recently, Windows 11 gained the option to remap the Copilot key to act as the Context menu key or Right Ctrl key. It's also possible to disable the key entirely.

Which key do you use the least on your PC? Is it Scroll Lock? Maybe the Insert key feels like a waste of space. I don't normally pay much attention to unused keys on a keyboard, but the Copilot key is an exception because it replaced a key people actually use.

Any laptop or keyboard that ships with a dedicated Copilot key lacks a Right Ctrl key. People have complained about the Copilot key since it was introduced and Microsoft has responded.

At some point this year, Windows 11 shipped an update that allows you to remap the Copilot key to the Right Ctrl key or the Context Menu key.

We've known about this change for a while. A Microsoft support document outlines the plans of the tech giant:

"Microsoft is committed to enabling customers to select options for how the Copilot key functions. A Windows 11 update will ship later this year that will add a setting option to let you remap the Copilot key to act as the Context menu key or Right Ctrl key. When available, you can find this setting in:

Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Keyboard"

The change is finally here. X user @phantomofearth shared a screenshot of the setting on Windows 11.

Up to this point, the feature has appeared inconsistently on Windows 11. In a follow-up post, @phantomofearth noted that the option does not appear on their system until enabling a feature ID.

My PC is running the latest version of Windows 11 and I see the option to customize the Copilot key. I did not see that option earlier this year, but I honestly can't say which day the toggle was added to my system.

I'm happy that Microsoft responded to feedback about the Copilot key, but there has been a way to remap the key for years. PowerToys has had a keyboard manager utility for years that lets you remap keys. If you use that tool, you aren't limited to the options Windows 11 gives you.

Microsoft PowerToys: at github.com

This collection of utilities includes a large library of features to enhance the Windows experience. PowerToys is designed with power users in mind, but it has handy features for people who just use their PC for everyday computing too.

Free at GitHub | Free at Microsoft Store

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