A new feature is arriving for Microsoft Edge users that could reshape how they browse the web.
Microsoft unveiled Copilot Mode, an AI-driven assistant woven directly into the Edge browser, and it moves far beyond the basics of a standard search tool.
This cutting edge Copilot Mode can now jump between all your open tabs, quickly compare hotels or gadgets, and even lend a hand with making restaurant reservations. Users are greeted with the Copilot chatbot every time they open a fresh tab, putting the AI helper front and center.
If you want to hand over a bit more trust, Copilot can—with permission—access your browsing history and sign-in data in order to make bookings or reservations for you. Critics have pointed out that this could raise privacy questions, but Microsoft says that every part of the AI service is opt-in.
Rethinking Browsing With AI
Voice navigation is now part of Copilot’s toolset as well, allowing users to ask for information on a page or open specific product tabs just by speaking. Instead of toggling between windows and searching tab by tab, Edge’s Copilot will summarize and organize your browse history into subject based journeys.
Sean Lyndersay, vice president of product for Edge, explained, “Copilot will soon be able to guide you in your tasks and organize your browsing—past and present—into helpful, topic-based journeys.”
For people who aren’t sold, Microsoft promises no one is forced to use this new Copilot Mode. Those uninterested can switch it off in settings and stick to more traditional browsing methods. “With Copilot Mode, you can also choose to turn the experience on and off as you wish through your Edge settings,” Lyndersay said.
The launch is being called an experiment and the AI powered tools are free for now, though Microsoft hints at future usage limits and possibly a subscription plan down the road.
While Google experiments with Gemini inside Chrome and competitors like Comet make bolder AI moves, it’s clear Microsoft has its sights set on weaving Copilot deeper into daily routines, shaping a future where browser assistants do more of the work.
