Microsoft Edge adds AI Copilot to tabs, users worry about privacy

Microsoft's AI Copilot is now built into Edge, able to read your open browser tabs. This is a big change from its previous 'Copilot Mode'.
By Newsroom | Technology, Software |

Microsoft is now integrating its artificial intelligence assistant, Copilot, more directly into the Edge browser, a move that sees the retirement of "Copilot Mode" in favor of deeper, in-app functionality. This shift allows Copilot to analyze users' open browser tabs, a feature requiring explicit user permission, to provide summaries, comparisons, and even generate content like AI-powered podcasts from browsing sessions.

Microsoft is baking even more Copilot functionality into the Edge browser - 1

The core of this update positions Copilot as an embedded tool within Edge, moving away from a distinct "mode." This allows the AI to actively process information across multiple open tabs upon user consent, generating direct responses and content like podcasts based on web content.

Microsoft is baking even more Copilot functionality into the Edge browser - 2

The new features are rolling out across desktop and mobile versions of Edge. This includes the ability for Copilot to generate summaries or side-by-side comparisons from multiple tabs. Additionally, users can now create AI-generated podcasts from their browsing history, a function previously seen in other AI tools.

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While Microsoft frames these changes as enhancing productivity and user control, with assurances that "your data stays yours," some users express unease. Concerns are being voiced regarding the privacy implications of an AI scanning open tabs, with some observers noting that "Edge and privacy don't go in the same sentence." This sentiment reflects a broader skepticism about the extent of AI integration into personal browsing habits.

Microsoft initially introduced Copilot Mode to Edge in October 2025, aiming to bolster its position against dominant browsers like Chrome and the rise of AI-native alternatives. The company has consistently sought to reimagine Edge's capabilities, emphasizing an "immersive, task-oriented experience" powered by AI. These latest updates appear to be an evolution of that strategy, bringing more AI features directly into the browser's main interface rather than a separate mode. The rollout extends familiar Copilot experiences to the Edge mobile app, a first for the platform.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How is Microsoft Copilot changing in the Edge browser?
Microsoft is putting Copilot AI directly into the Edge browser, not as a separate mode. It can now look at your open browser tabs to help you, if you allow it.
Q: What new things can Copilot do in Edge?
Copilot can now give you summaries of your tabs, compare them, or even create things like AI podcasts from your browsing. This is available on desktop and mobile.
Q: Why are some users worried about these changes?
Some people are concerned about their privacy because the AI will be able to see what websites they have open. They worry about how their data will be used.
Q: When did Copilot first come to Edge?
Microsoft first added a Copilot feature to Edge in October 2025. These new updates make the AI a more built-in part of the browser.
Q: What is Microsoft's goal with these Edge updates?
Microsoft wants to make Edge better for users by using AI to help them with tasks. They say user data will remain private and secure.