Microsoft adds Copilot Mode to Edge browser, brings AI chat and voice control

What just happened? Microsoft is taking a bigger swing at everyday AI integration with the launch of Copilot Mode in its Edge browser. Now available on Windows and Mac, the update marks a significant step in Microsoft's push to embed AI directly into the browsing experience, making tasks like research, comparison shopping, and online navigation faster (to be seen), and voice-enabled.

Copilot Mode blends chat, search, and navigation in a single input field. Rather than relying on users to manage a multitude of tabs and switch between them, the AI assistant is designed to understand context across all open tabs. This functionality enables tasks such as comparing options across multiple websites, summarizing information, or streamlining actions like booking reservations using natural language prompts.

Voice control is integrated into Copilot Mode, allowing users to speak their requests, open sites, and refine searches hands-free. For instance, people researching hotels or shopping ...