Edge’s Copilot Mode adds Copilot Actions, Journeys and optional browsing-history access
Microsoft has rolled out notable updates to Edge’s Copilot Mode, bringing features that were teased earlier this year into a US‑only limited preview. The main additions are Copilot Actions (AI‑assisted multi‑step tasks), Journeys (saved research projects you can resume later) and an opt‑in option to let Copilot access your browsing history for more personalized responses.
These changes aim to turn Copilot from a passive helper into an active assistant that can complete sequences of steps and remember context across browsing sessions, reducing the need to keep dozens of tabs open.
What’s new
- Copilot Actions: Automates multi‑step tasks like unsubscribing from newsletters or making a restaurant reservation, similar to Actions in the standalone Copilot experience.
- Journeys: Save a project (research, trip planning, shopping) and have Copilot recap what you’ve read, suggest next steps and resurface content you previously opened.
- Browsing‑history access (opt‑in): If you permit it, Copilot can reference pages you visited to answer follow‑ups (for example, recalling a product you looked at last week).
Privacy and controls
Microsoft emphasizes that explicit permission is required before Copilot accesses private data, and says it will show clear visual cues when Copilot is active. The company also points to its privacy policies and claims it collects only what’s necessary to improve the experience. Still, these features rely on sensitive data to be most useful — so think carefully before granting access.
Availability and preview
The new Copilot Mode features are currently available in a limited preview in the United States. Microsoft is testing the workflow and collecting feedback; broader rollout timing hasn’t been announced.
Why it matters
Making Copilot able to execute multi‑step tasks and remember context across sessions could significantly reduce friction for complex workflows (research, planning, booking). At the same time, giving an AI assistant access to browsing history raises questions about what data is stored, for how long and where processing occurs (device vs. cloud).
Tips before you opt in
- Review the permission prompt carefully and limit access if you don’t want long‑term history usage.
- Check Microsoft’s privacy docs and your browser settings to see how to revoke access later.
- Watch for the visual indicator that shows Copilot is active before sharing sensitive info.
For hands‑on users, Copilot Actions and Journeys could cut hours of tab management and manual steps. For privacy‑minded people, they’re a reminder to weigh convenience against data exposure.
Learn more: Microsoft Blogs · Coverage.
Discussion: Would you let Copilot access your browsing history to get smarter answers, or is that a line you wouldn’t cross? What safeguards would make you comfortable?
