Microsoft Adds Option to Completely Disable Copilot Key in Windows 11
Microsoft has introduced a new setting in experimental builds of Windows 11 that allows home users to completely disable the dedicated Copilot key on compatible keyboards. The option, labeled Do nothing, effectively turns the button into a non-functional key and prevents it from launching the generative AI assistant.
The feature was discovered by enthusiast phantomofearth and appears in the Bluetooth and devices section under Keyboard settings. It sits next to other reassignment choices that currently include launching Microsoft 365 Copilot, triggering search, or executing a custom action.
Availability remains limited and is being rolled out gradually to Windows Insiders. Some testers report receiving the option earlier than others, indicating a phased deployment by Microsoft.
The Copilot key first appeared on new Windows laptops in 2024 after manufacturers were encouraged to replace the right Ctrl key with it to emphasize the era of AI PCs. Explaining the practical advantages of these machines over conventional powerful computers proved difficult for vendors.
In May 2026 Microsoft began retreating from its initial stance by promising to allow users to restore the original right Ctrl function, albeit with restrictions. Prior to this change, users had to rely on third-party utilities such as NoCopilotKey to stop accidental presses from opening the AI assistant.
While Copilot continues to integrate deeper into File Explorer and other parts of the operating system, the new setting will at least give users a built-in way to keep one door closed to the assistant once it reaches the stable version of Windows 11.
Related articles
Molniya Messenger Debuts in RuStore as Paid Alternative with End-to-End Encryption
Russian company Red Soft and Chinese partner Passion Tech have released the Molniya messenger on the RuStore platform. The Android application requires a one-time payment of 750 rubles with no additional in-app purchases. Key features include personal and group chats, audio and video calls, channels, a social feed, and short videos, all protected by default end-to-end encryption. Users can send files up to 4 GB, organize up to 30 chat folders, pin 15 conversations or channels, and subscribe to as many as 1,000 channels. The developers aim to reach 15 million users within 18 months after launch. The project was originally scheduled for early 2026 but became available earlier than planned.
Enthusiasts Bring Xbox Cloud Gaming and Native Windows Titles to PlayStation 5 via Homebrew
Homebrew developers have created two separate projects that expand the capabilities of modified PlayStation 5 consoles. The first project, PSBox Cloud Gaming by RafaelNGP, turns the console into a client for Microsoft’s Xbox Cloud Gaming service, streaming games at 1080p and 60 frames per second while supporting full DualSense features. The second project, prospero-win, uses Wine and compatibility layers to run Windows games locally on the PS5 hardware. Reported performance includes Half-Life 2 at high settings and 60 FPS, GTA IV at approximately 55 FPS in open-world areas at 1080p, and older titles such as Counter-Strike 1.6 and Warcraft III exceeding 60 FPS. Both projects require a console capable of running unofficial software and, for cloud gaming, a Game Pass Ultimate subscription for most of the library. The work remains experimental and depends on individual game compatibility.
Yandex Data Center Attacks Trigger Outages, Cloud Disruptions and Stock Decline
A series of physical attacks has disabled or partially damaged multiple Yandex data centers in Russia, leading to prolonged service outages across cloud and consumer platforms. Fires and power failures struck facilities in Sasovo, Kaluga and Vladimir between 8 and 11 October, forcing the company to shift workloads to the remaining Mytishchi site. Analysts from Finam, Rikom-Trust and Freedom Global note that recovery timelines now stretch from several months to two years for specialized hardware such as supercomputers. The incidents have already erased nearly 9 percent of Yandex share value and raised concerns over future capital expenditure, client retention in Yandex Cloud and potential sanctions complications for overseas expansion. Experts emphasize that the attacks have moved from isolated technical failures to a systemic business-continuity and investment-risk issue.
Cyber Attack on Danfoss Systems Forces Defrost in 250 French Supermarkets, Spoiling Stock
Hackers compromised refrigeration control systems supplied by Danfoss in French supermarket chains Intermarché and Coopérative U, activating continuous defrost cycles that raised temperatures to 50 °C. The sabotage affected between 150 and 200 Intermarché stores and nearly 100 Coopérative U locations, forcing retailers to discard large quantities of fresh and frozen goods. French authorities confirmed the incidents, with the Paris prosecutor’s office opening an investigation after reports of associated fires. The attackers exploited the normal maintenance function of the Danfoss equipment, turning brief defrost cycles into prolonged warming that broke the cold chain. Coopérative U chairman Dominique Schelcher described the event as unprecedented and stated that technical teams are working with refrigeration specialists to restore operations. No group has claimed responsibility, and investigators continue to examine the initial access vector. The incident illustrates how manipulation of industrial control systems can produce immediate physical and financial damage without traditional data theft or encryption.