Debian User Forums

Hi All,

Have you all noticed the windows key on every keyboard out there? If it is a standalone keyboard or integrated on a laptop, a windows key is always present.
I would like to do something about that because there is a huge community that does not use Windows. Like me.
Instead, why not create a universal start button. So every OS can use that button.

If you like to join me in the struggle against the Windows Key, please feel free to sign the petition at <removed url>

Share this message to get as many petitions as possible.
With the petitions i will get in contact with hardware suppliers to discuss any options.
Thanks in advance for your support. Hopefully we will get rid of the windows key.

I understand your life altering concern, but to state the obvious, what I hope you are aware of, any key function is changeable regardless of what it is labled as.

It's threads like this, and the vast majority are, that give me pause and reflect on why I even have a link to this site.

Thanks for the chuckle

When i flip over my keyboard the sticker says 'Microsoft Basic Keyboard 1.0A'. Please ensure the petition also requests removal of all Microsoft labels before distributing to customers. If you don't like the key, don't use it, black felt the Microsoft logo, use a screwdriver to pry the key or buy a different keyboard. Microsoft paid good money to design and produce my particular keyboard, so they can pretty much dress it up however they want. The world has larger issues to address.

Edit: arid beat me to post, for once i agree with his opinion

You could just stick a sticker over it

it works great as the compose key

It's moments like this that I wish I could just borrow a Purple Hammer for 30 seconds. Ah well.

I agree there should be no OS dependent key but what would you replace it with it has become default and norm. for me its nothing but mod key like any other but the first.

dasein wrote:It's moments like this that I wish I could just borrow a Purple Hammer for 30 seconds. Ah well.

The OPs thread on the Arch forums on the same subject lasted about that long before it was binned...

The laptop I am using right now has a Windows key and a Windows 7 sticker affixed on the left hand side, and I am not bothered of having them as long as GNU/Linux boots and works.

Look at the Windows key as an invitation to create a handy shortcut for your preferred application or to open your preferred directory.

I would remap it to be an extra spacebar, since it took up the real estate originally used by the spacebar.

I like the way it behaves in Gnome 3.