Microsoft Surrenders Copilot Key! What's Their Next Big Move?

Microsoft

In a recent post on the Windows Insider Blog, Microsoft shared that the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4225 (KB5043186) is now being released. Although a minor update, it significantly allows users to customize the Copilot key that is many laptops now feature.

Microsoft's blog highlights the newfound customizability of the Copilot key, enabling it to launch any app that's MSIX packaged and digitally authenticated. This change enhances both security and privacy while maintaining user safety. Once available on a wider scale, the option can be accessed under Settings > Personalization > Text Input.

Details on when this function will appear in the stable release remain unavailable, but it's anticipated that it won't take long. Microsoft has also reminded users of the necessary transition from Windows 11 version 22H2 to 23H2 by October 8.

In related news, an unofficial Windows 11 feature dubbed "Hand Off" could soon make alternating between devices more seamless. This capability was highlighted by X (formerly known as Twitter) user @techsarusrex and introduces the ability to switch devices and continue tasks seamlessly from your smartphone. This feature remains hidden behind a system flag, but can be activated using the ViVeTool as reported by MSPowerUser.

If you're halfway through a document on your mobile device, your computer will prompt you to resume when it's powered on. This functionality is akin to Apple's Handoff feature, which lets users transition tasks fluidly between their iPhone or iPad and Mac.

Windows 11 will be getting some new continue from device/handoff capabilities (seen in build 22635.4225)