Why does the Copilot key now open a small text bar as opposed to the whole app and how do I fix the issue?

Ethan Jones 0 Reputation points
2026-10-30T01:26:50.52+00:00

Since getting my Copilot PC I have enjoyed using the key to open Copilot, however I don't understand what has changed and whether it is intentional or not. How do I change it back?

Microsoft Copilot | Windows Copilot | Copilot+ PC
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  1. AI answer

    2026-10-30T01:27:05.3166667+00:00

    This is intentional on updated Windows 11 devices.

    As of the May 2025 optional nonsecurity preview release, pressing the Copilot key or Win+C opens a lightweight prompt box instead of the older full sidebar experience. The prompt can then be expanded into the full Microsoft Copilot app.

    If the goal is to change the key behavior, these are the supported options:

    1. Open Settings.
    2. Go to Personalization > Text input.
    3. Find Customize Copilot key on keyboard.
    4. Select one of the available options such as Search, Custom, or the currently mapped app.
    5. To map it back to the Microsoft Copilot app, choose Custom and then select the Microsoft Copilot app from the app picker.

    If the Microsoft Copilot app is missing from the app picker, reinstall it from the Microsoft Store.

    A direct Settings shortcut is also available: ms-settings:personalization-textinput-copilot-hardwarekey

    For accessibility-focused keyboard remapping on some devices, Windows is also adding an option to remap the Copilot key to Context menu or Right Ctrl in Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Keyboard.

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  2. Vikki-T 13,230 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-10-30T08:58:10.1866667+00:00

    Hi Ethan Jones,

    I understand why this change would be confusing, especially when the Copilot key previously opened the full app.

    The narrow prompt bar is Copilot’s Quick view, which is designed to let you enter a question without opening the full window. If you would rather have the key open the complete Copilot app, open Copilot > account/profile icon > Settings > Copilot Keyboard Shortcuts, then choose the full application instead of Quick view.

    If you do not see that choice, update Microsoft Copilot from the Microsoft Store and restart Windows before checking the setting again. Microsoft’s instructions for the available Copilot shortcuts are also available here: Access Microsoft Copilot on Windows.

    I hope this helps you return the Copilot key to the experience you are familiar with. Thank you so much for your understanding.     

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