Edge Dev Update 134.0.3124.8: Boosted Productivity & Security Features

Microsoft's Edge Dev channel has just seen a significant update with version 134.0.3124.8—a release that brings a host of exciting enhancements tailored for business productivity while deprecating some older features. This article dives into the nitty-gritty details of the update, explores its implications for Windows users, and offers expert insights into how these changes might influence your browsing and work processes.

What's New in Edge Dev 134.0.3124.8?​

Enhanced Microsoft Copilot Features in the “Work” Tab​

One of the standout features in this release is the integration of advanced capabilities for Microsoft 365 Copilot within Edge. Here’s what you need to know:

• Business Chat Upgrades: Starting from mid to late March 2025, Microsoft Copilot in the Edge browser will roll out new functionalities in the “Work” tab. Business users can now enjoy enhanced communication options through Business Chat, streamlining work interactions.
• Page Summarization & Contextual Queries: Copilot now offers a Page Summarization feature that lets you quickly digest lengthy web pages by generating concise summaries. Additionally, contextual query capabilities allow you to ask tailored questions like “summarize this page” or other relevant queries based on the page’s content.
• Interactive Side Pane: These intelligent prompts and suggestions are accessible directly via the Edge side pane. This offers users a more integrated experience, although a Microsoft 365 Copilot license is required to access these premium features.
• Administrative Control: For organizations, there’s an added layer of security and control. Administrators can manage feature availability through dedicated policies, ensuring that the deployment aligns with corporate IT standards.

Changes to Bing Search Functionality​

In a move to streamline business-related searches, Microsoft is phasing out the traditional Microsoft Search in Bing:

• Deprecation Notice: With the release of Edge Dev version 134, Microsoft Search in Bing—which previously assisted with work-related searches—is being deprecated. After March 31, 2025, this feature will cease functioning.
• New Address Bar Setting: The old setting known as “AddressBarMicrosoftSearchInBingProviderEnabled” is no longer recommended. Instead, users should transition to the new setting “AddressBarWorkSearchResultsEnabled,” which is designed to improve and modernize the search experience within the Edge address bar for business queries.

Additional Security and Profile Enhancements​

This update isn’t just about productivity and search—it also bolsters security and refines user profiles:

• Scareware Blocker Policy: A new scareware blocker policy has been introduced, reinforcing the browser’s defenses against emerging cyber threats. This policy is a welcome addition for those who prioritize security while browsing.
• Profile Menu Changes for Entra ID: Another notable change is the removal of the “Add account” option from the profile menu for Entra ID users. This means linking a personal account directly within Edge will no longer be possible through the profile menu, nudging users toward more secure account management practices.

What Does This Mean for Windows Users?​

For Windows enthusiasts and IT professionals alike, these updates mark a pivotal moment in enhancing both productivity and security within the Edge browser:

• Streamlined Business Interactions: The advanced Copilot features open up new possibilities for handling complex workflows, potentially reducing the time spent switching between applications and digging through lengthy documents.
• Modernized Search Experience: Transitioning to the new Bing search settings may require some adaptation, but it also signals a move towards a more intuitive search environment tailored specifically for work-related queries.
• Reinforced Security: With the scareware blocker policy now in place, Edge reinforces its commitment to user safety—a welcome enhancement given the evolving landscape of cyber threats.

A Broader Perspective​

In the rapidly changing realm of browsers and online productivity tools, these enhancements in Edge Dev mirror a broader industry trend: the convergence of artificial intelligence and everyday work tools. As AI continues to reshape how we interact with information, tools like Copilot are positioning themselves at the forefront of this revolution, providing both improved user experiences and robust enterprise controls.
Moreover, these changes also raise interesting questions about the role of search in our digital workflows. With Microsoft's move away from legacy settings and features, users may need to rethink how they integrate search tools into their daily routines. Could these shifts improve our efficiency, or will they require a period of adjustment? Only time will tell.

Final Thoughts​

Edge Dev 134.0.3124.8 is a forward-thinking update that not only enhances Microsoft 365 Copilot’s interaction through the new “Work” tab but also modernizes the search functionalities within the browser by phasing out outdated features. It’s a reflection of Microsoft’s broader vision to blend productivity, security, and user experience into a unified package—a package that Windows users and IT professionals across the board will undoubtedly appreciate.
What are your thoughts on these changes? Will the enhanced Copilot features transform the way you work, or do you foresee challenges in adapting to the new search settings? Join the discussion on our forum and share your insights or questions about these dynamic changes in Edge Dev.
Stay tuned for more updates and, as always, keep your systems running smoothly and securely!

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Source: Windows Report Edge Dev 134.0.3124.8 brings new features for Copilot, deprecates Microsoft Search in Bing