Microsoft’s new Copilot mode turns Edge into AI browser
With access to open tabs and optional browser history use, Copilot Mode can summarize content, compare results, and assist with booking tasks.
Microsoft has introduced Copilot Mode in its Edge web browser, an optional experimental feature that embeds the Copilot AI assistant directly into browsing.
The update integrates chat, web search, and web navigation into a unified interface, streamlining tasks across open tabs and enabling voice commands and contextual assistance.
Why Copilot mode matters
Traditional browsers rely on tabs and manual navigation. Copilot Mode changes that by placing a single input field on the new tab page, where users can type or speak commands.
From there, Copilot can pull information across all open tabs to assist with tasks such as summarizing pages, comparing products, or booking restaurants, all without manual tab switching.
Users who opt in can allow Copilot access to browser history and credentials, enabling actions like making reservations on their behalf. Microsoft emphasizes that the feature is opt-in, available for free on Windows and Mac, and can be disabled at any time via Edge settings.
Stronger AI integration amid browser competition
Copilot Mode is part of Microsoft’s bid to reclaim ground in the AI browsing space, competing with others like Google’s Chrome AI mode, Perplexity’s Comet browser, and upcoming products from OpenAI.
Unlike standalone AI browsers, Copilot Mode aims to collaborate with users by organizing browsing "journeys" and anticipating next steps.
Core features at a glance
- Unified Input Box: Combines search, chat, and navigation in one place.
- Tab-Aware AI: Copilot can analyze all open tabs to summarize or compare information.
- Voice Interaction: Users can control the browser via voice commands from the Copilot sidebar.
- Task Handling: With permission, Copilot can act on user commands like booking appointments. Future “Actions” capability expected.
- Privacy Controls: Use is entirely optional, and Microsoft ensures security aligns with its established privacy standards.
According to Microsoft, Copilot Mode will evolve with new features such as automating bookings, task remembering, and organized browsing history grouped by topic.