I’d like to propose a feature that I think many producers would benefit from: the ability to create and remap keyboard shortcuts natively within Ableton Live.
The Problem
Right now, Ableton’s keyboard shortcuts are fixed and cannot be customized through the application itself. While the Key Mapping mode is great for mapping UI elements during performance, it doesn’t allow us to reassign core shortcuts (like transport controls, view switches, etc.) or create entirely new ones for menu actions. Workarounds like AutoHotkey (Windows), macOS App Shortcuts, or third-party tools like the Live Enhancement Suite do the job — but they add friction to the setup and aren’t officially supported.
The Request
A built-in Shortcut Editor inside Live’s Preferences, similar to what DAWs like Reaper or Logic Pro already offer, with the following capabilities:
• Remap any existing keyboard shortcut to a custom key combination
• Assign shortcuts to menu actions that currently have none
• Export/import shortcut profiles to share setups with other users
• Integration with the new Extensions SDK, so Extensions can optionally be triggered via a keyboard shortcut
Why It Matters
Every producer has a unique workflow. Being able to tailor shortcuts to your muscle memory would significantly speed up session work and reduce repetitive strain from navigating menus. With the Extensions SDK now in public beta, this feels like the perfect time to also open up shortcut customization — it would make Extensions even more powerful and accessible.
I know third-party solutions exist, but a native implementation would be more stable, cross-platform, and beginner-friendly.
Would love to hear if others feel the same way — and if Ableton is already considering this for a future update!
Thanks
