Microsoft Copilot Update Embeds Edge into AI Assistant

Microsoft is rolling out a Copilot update to Windows Insiders that embeds web browsing directly into the assistant, opening links in a side panel rather than launching your default browser.

What Does This Mean for Users?

The plan is that users of the Copilot app in Windows will show content in the assistant’s window “so you don’t lose context.” However, this has raised concerns among browser vendors, with some seeing it as an attempt to steer users away from their default browser.

For example, Bruce Lawson, Vivaldi’s Technical Communications Officer, stated: “If it’s not opt-in, then it’s bad behavior. Over the last 25 years, people have become accustomed to clicking links, and that opens their default browser with their preferred settings, stored passwords, preferred font size, and preferred security settings.”

Key Features of the Update

• Embeds Edge into Copilot via the WebView2 control
• Opens links in a side panel rather than launching your default browser
• Allows access to the context of tabs opened in that conversation
• Saves opened tabs with the conversation so that they can be returned to
• Option to enable password and form data synchronization

Meanwhile, the update has also added new features to the Copilot app, including Podcasts and Study and Learn mode from Copilot.com. Additionally, some features may be pulled back while Microsoft iterates on the experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Microsoft Copilot update has sparked controversy among browser vendors, with some seeing it as an attempt to limit user choice. However, for users, the update may provide a convenient way to access web content alongside conversations. Ultimately, the success of this update will depend on user feedback and Microsoft’s willingness to address concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Microsoft Copilot update? The Microsoft Copilot update is a new feature that embeds web browsing directly into the assistant, opening links in a side panel rather than launching your default browser.
2. Is the update opt-in? Microsoft has not responded to questions about whether the update is opt-in or not.
3. Which browser is being used? The update uses Edge via the WebView2 control.
4. What are the key features of the update? The update includes features such as embedding Edge into Copilot, opening links in a side panel, and allowing access to the context of tabs opened in that conversation.
5. How will the update affect users? The update may provide a convenient way for users to access web content alongside conversations, but it has also raised concerns among browser vendors about user choice and competition.