ReplaceOSK

Designing an operating system is a complex endeavor, and keeping the entirety of its components up to date with users’ needs and expectations is an incredibly strenuous task, which is why Windows includes certain telemetry features and feedback reporting options to find out which components require updates and what kind of improvements are necessary.

As such, with the latest version of Microsoft’s OS slowly modernizing functions to fit the newer design language, updated iterations of certain utilities are implemented, but hidden from general use, which is where a handy script known as ReplaceOSK switches the Metro-style on-screen accessibility keyboard with an experimental Windows 11 version boasting additional functionality.

Given its script format, the utility automatically replaces the legacy keyboard with the newer version when run, sparing users from manually changing system settings via the Registry Editor. Since no installation process is required, the program can be easily added to portable setups for IT specialists troubleshooting Windows tablets without any physical keyboards available in sight.

While the newer iteration can be accessed by adding and clicking its dedicated system tray icon, users who have the original hotkey combination of the Windows, Control and O keys to trigger the accessibility version ingrained in their muscle memory can make good use of the updated one for access to more elements such as voice typing, reaction GIFs and emoticons to suit their workflow.

Since users have to run the script again in order to revert to the legacy version, it is recommended to keep the file ready at any point in case of any possible errors.

Those looking for a way to quickly access Windows’ full-fledged software keyboard using a dedicated hotkey combination instead of the system tray icon can do so thanks to ReplaceOSK’s lightweight and easy-to-use script that can be toggled as often as users see fit.