Microsoft has unveiled a major artificial intelligence upgrade to its Edge browser with the launch of “Copilot Mode,” a new AI-powered experience designed to enhance web browsing through smart assistance, task automation, and streamlined navigation.

The new feature introduces an AI overlay that combines chat, search, and navigation into a single input box, aiming to simplify how users interact with the internet. Users will be able to carry out tasks, organize information into topic-based queries, compare results across open tabs, and even navigate using voice commands—all without leaving their current browser window.

Copilot Mode is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to stay ahead in the increasingly competitive AI browser landscape. The rollout comes as rivals like Alphabet, OpenAI, and Perplexity AI ramp up development of their own AI-driven browsing experiences. Google, for instance, recently reported high user engagement with its own “AI Mode,” while startups are offering new, AI-exclusive browsing tools such as Perplexity’s Comet browser.

Microsoft emphasized that user control and privacy remain central to Copilot’s design. The AI assistant will only access browsing data, history, and credentials if the user explicitly opts in. Visual cues will signal when Copilot is active in the background, and the feature can be toggled on or off within Edge’s settings.

For now, Copilot Mode will be available for free on Windows and Mac devices in markets where Microsoft’s AI assistant is supported. The company has not yet disclosed whether the feature will eventually be monetized or integrated more tightly with paid Copilot subscriptions.

As AI continues to reshape how users interact with software, Microsoft’s latest release signals its commitment to embedding intelligent tools directly into the user interface of everyday applications—making web browsing more intuitive, efficient, and conversational.