Microsoft has made a significant move towards AI-first browsing on Windows 10 and 11 with the official release of Microsoft Edge 136 version. This update marks the debut of the Copilot AI assistant on the browser’s New Tab Page (NTP), enhancing the user experience with intelligent features and personalized assistance.
The new browsing Era with Integrated Copilot
In the new Microsoft Edge 136, users will notice that the usual Bing search box on the New Tab Page (NTP) will be replaced by the Copilot icon. This formation makes a deeper integration of AI into the browsing experience. When users enter text in the search box, Copilot provides impressive responses, and selecting one opens a Copilot session with the query preloaded, making the search process smoother.
For a complete grasp of the Copilot’s capabilities, users can enable “Edge Copilot Mode” by navigating to edge://flags. Search for “Edge Copilot Mode,” enable it, and then restart the browser. Further, with the copilot mode, users can add additional features like:
Tab Page with Integrated Copilot
This feature enables Copilot to take over the NTP by replacing the standard content with a Copilot-centric interface.
Context Clues
If this feature is enabled, Copilot can provide AI-generated answers based on the current webpage, browser history, or user preferences. The feature can be selected according to the user’s preference and must be manually activated by the user. This ensures user keep control over the use of their data.
Experience and Privacy Enhancement
Microsoft Edge 136 Copilot integration offers a smoother interface. It decreases the mess from traditional news feeds and focuses intensely on AI-driven assistance. The “Context Clues” feature raises a privacy consideration, as it involves accessing browsing history and preferences to generate responses. Microsoft has clearly stated that these features are optional and require user consent, allowing individuals to have control over their data.
AI Vision of Microsoft Windows in Browsing
With Copilot AI in Microsoft Edge 136, Microsoft Windows represents a significant step towards integrating AI into our regular browsing. Aiming to increase user productivity and engagement. The update aligns with a broader strategy to embed AI across its ecosystem. This includes Windows 11 and Office 365, providing users with intelligent tools to enhance their digital experiences.
Microsoft Edge 136’s Copilot integration marks a significant step in web browsing, offering users an AI-enhanced experience that prioritizes efficiency and personalization. Although these recent advancements by Microsoft offer promising benefits, users should remain informed about privacy settings and make informed decisions when enabling features that access personal data according to their preferences.
