Overview
Starting in 2024, hardware manufactures released new Windows 11 devices that include a dedicated Copilot key that provides quick access to Copilot experiences in Windows. This Copilot key sometimes replaces the Right Ctrl key or Context Menu key on select devices.
Customers who rely on the Right Ctrl key or Context menu key for keyboard shortcuts or assistive technologies (such as screen readers) experienced some challenges to their workflows when using these devices.
Solution
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
Note: If you remap the Copilot key to Right Ctrl, some key combinations that utilize the physical Left Shift key together with the Right Control key might not work consistently on all Keyboards. If you run into issues, use the physical Right Shift key for those shortcuts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What changed with the Right Ctrl key?
Starting in 2024, some hardware manufactures released new devices that replaced the Right Ctrl key (or Context menu key in some instances) with a Copilot key for quick access to Copilot in Windows.
Can the Copilot key be configured?
Configuration options vary depending on device manufacturer. A future Windows 11 update will add a setting that allows you to remap the Copilot key to either the Right Ctrl key or the Context menu key.
Keyboard layouts and Copilot key implementations can vary based on device manufacturer, firmware configuration, and hardware design.
Which versions of Windows are affected?
This behavior may be present on any Windows 11 device that includes a dedicated Copilot key.
Where can I find the latest updates about my device?
For the latest updates, see Windows 11 release information and your device manufacturer’s support documentation. You can also check back on this page for updates.
Note: If your device includes its own settings to remap or manage the Copilot key, use either the Windows setting or the device setting—not both.
Additional Information
Copilot key implementations may vary across keyboard layouts and hardware configurations. Microsoft continues to work toward consistent and accessible experiences across Windows devices while minimizing disruption to productivity and accessibility workflows.
To provide feedback, open Windows Feedback Hub (Windows key + F) or contact the Disability Answer Desk (https://aka.ms/DAD).
