Microsoft Revives Menu Key Due To Copilot Backlash

After facing criticism for eliminating the Menu key, Microsoft appears to be considering its return—at least in part—in upcoming updates for Windows keyboards. This revival may help restore some of the lost capabilities of the key, as highlighted by PhantomOfEarth on X (formerly Twitter).

Microsoft may enable users to remap the Copilot key to function like the Menu key, essentially reinstating its original purpose. In October, the company introduced limited capabilities to customize the Copilot key, but these options were restricted to MSIX-packaged and signed applications. It seems Microsoft is now looking to broaden these functionalities, granting users greater control over what the key can perform.

Having one of the top laptops doesn’t guarantee extensive app compatibility for the Copilot key. The Menu key gained popularity because it proved useful in situations where a mouse was unavailable—it mirrored the options provided by a right-click. This crucial key has been a notable feature on Surface devices.

As of now, Microsoft has not made an official statement regarding the timeline or certainty of enabling this new flexibility for Windows users. This insight comes from a prominent leaker, but Microsoft may ultimately decide to scrap these changes entirely. It remains to be seen if the company will follow through, potentially rolling out this feature before the year’s end, making it easier to access the options previously offered by the Menu key. Perhaps, as time goes on, Microsoft will continue to enhance its offerings.