Microsoft Edge Is Getting Even Smarter with Copilot

Microsoft is doubling down on AI and this time; it’s weaving Copilot even deeper into the Edge browser experience.

At the moment, if you want to use Copilot in Edge, you have to click the icon tucked away in the sidebar. Simple enough. But Microsoft is testing a change that would make Copilot open automatically every time you launch Edge or start a new tab.

That means your AI assistant would always be there, ready to help, without you having to do a thing.

What This Could Mean for Users

Not everyone will love the idea of Copilot popping up by default. Some people will find it useful; others might find it intrusive. But the direction is clear: Microsoft wants Copilot to become a natural part of using Edge, not just an optional extra.

Alongside this, another experiment is an “Ask Copilot” option inside the Settings menu. So, if you ever get stuck trying to tweak a browser setting, you could simply ask Copilot to sort it out instead of scrolling through endless menus.

For businesses, this could be a genuine time-saver.

Potential Benefits for Teams Using Edge

Here’s how these updates could help in the workplace:

• Quicker troubleshooting: Instead of searching forums or calling IT support, staff could simply ask Copilot to resolve browser issues.
• Always-available assistant: Whether it’s summarising a report, drafting an email or brainstorming ideas, Copilot would always be open and ready to go.
• Improved security: Microsoft is also piloting an AI-driven “Scareware Blocker” designed to spot and block scam websites before they cause damage.

Will It Stick?

These features are currently being tested in Edge Canary (the experimental version of the browser). Microsoft often tries out new tools there, but not all of them make it to the mainstream release.

That said, given Microsoft’s heavy focus on AI, there’s a strong chance this one will.

A Few Things to Consider

• Convenience vs. control: Some users will welcome Copilot always being open, while others may prefer a cleaner, distraction-free browser.
• Privacy concerns: Microsoft hasn’t revealed the full details yet. If Copilot is always running, users will want reassurance that their data isn’t being monitored unnecessarily.
• Customisation: Ideally, Microsoft will allow people to switch the feature on or off, depending on preference.

If these updates go ahead, Copilot could soon be a permanent fixture in Edge streamlining everyday tasks, helping with troubleshooting and even protecting users from scams.

For businesses, that could mean fewer IT headaches, greater productivity and smarter security tools built right into the browser.

Not sure how to get started with Copilot or integrate AI into your team’s workflow? Netvector IT can help you explore the options.