Edge’s new Copilot mode watches you browse
Microsoft has introduced “Copilot Mode” in its Edge browser, an AI-powered feature designed to assist users during web browsing. This experimental, opt-in feature is currently available at no cost for Mac and PC users who have access to Copilot.
Upon activation, Edge users will encounter a new tab page facilitating search, chat, and web navigation with Copilot’s assistance. When accessing specific web pages, users can engage Copilot for further help. For instance, Microsoft demonstrated Copilot’s ability to suggest vegan substitutions for a recipe being viewed, eliminating the need to manually paste content into an AI chatbot. Alternatively, users can instruct Copilot to present only the recipe details, bypassing lengthy introductory texts often found online.
Microsoft states that Copilot can perform various tasks on behalf of the user, including scheduling appointments, generating shopping lists, and drafting content. This “agentic” web use represents an advancement in AI browser capabilities. While the objective is to simplify daily tasks, such as booking accommodations on platforms like Booking.com or flights via Kayak, the efficiency of conversing with an AI compared to direct action depends on the user’s familiarity with the respective website.
Copilot supports voice input, which may benefit individuals less proficient in online booking procedures or those with limited mobility. Microsoft has indicated that future updates will enable users to provide Copilot with additional context, such as credentials or historical data, to facilitate more complex actions like bookings. Currently, these processes require more manual interaction.
Copilot’s functionality as a research companion is notable. With user consent, Copilot can access all open tabs to comprehend the user’s browsing context. This capability is useful for activities like product comparisons or online research, such as cross-referencing flight or hotel prices across multiple websites. Integrating these AI chatbot functionalities directly into the browser aims to streamline the process of translating user needs into digital assistance.
Microsoft plans for Copilot to recommend next steps in ongoing projects or research, prompting users to resume their activities. The company emphasizes that Copilot will only access browsing content when explicitly permitted by the user, with visual cues providing transparency regarding this access. However, the option to enable or disable a feature capable of monitoring browsing activity may raise user concerns.