Just a week after expanding customization options for the dedicated Copilot key, Microsoft has seemingly reversed course. The latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build (26120.2222) in the developer channel, released on November 8, 2024, limits Copilot key functionality to launching only "Microsoft 365" and the "Copilot" app itself. Previously, users could assign any MSIX packaged and signed app to the key.

The Copilot key customization feature was first introduced in beta builds, then made widely available on November 12th, but we just discovered that it has now been restricted to Microsoft's own apps only in the current Windows 11 dev channel build.

The Copilot key, introduced earlier this year as a core part of “AI PCs,” is located beside the right Alt key on compatible keyboards. Its primary function is to launch Windows Copilot, Microsoft's AI assistant integrated into Windows 11. While the Windows key offers a wide range of system shortcuts, the Copilot key’s functionality has been more limited.

The recent change in the developer channel build raises questions about Microsoft's plans for the Copilot key. It remains unclear whether this restriction will be carried over to the Beta and eventually public releases of Windows 11, or if it’s a temporary change for testing purposes in the developer channel. Microsoft hasn't officially commented on the reason for this rollback.