Microsoft Edge is embracing a new era of productivity with an AI-boosted Sidebar that’s already turning heads among Windows 11 users. The latest upgrade brings Copilot into sharper focus, enhancing its ability to recall previous conversations and introducing a powerful new mode called Think Deeper. This evolution not only bridges the gap between the Browser’s AI and its counterparts on Android and the web but may also set the stage for the next wave of integrated AI experiences on Windows 11.
Recent observations by keen-eyed users, including insights shared on Reddit, reveal that Copilot within the Edge Sidebar can now recall entire previous conversations. For many, this is a major win compared to the web version, which typically doesn’t allow for quick reference to past dialogues. In an era where context is king, preserving conversation history means users can engage in more continuous and productive interactions.
Key aspects of the new update include:
• Copilot now retains conversation history, allowing you to refer back to earlier chats without switching contexts.
• The integration of “Think Deeper,” a feature designed for complex, context-driven tasks, marks a significant stride in AI functionality within the browser.
• The upgrade is being rolled out gradually—so while some users have seen the changes, others might have to wait for the full deployment.
This incremental rollout underscores Microsoft’s cautious and measured approach to refining the user experience. Early testers report that while the conversation history is immediately available, the Think Deeper capability—built on OpenAI’s advanced o1 model—is still arriving on some systems.
Think Deeper is engineered to handle tasks like weighing the pros and cons of major decisions—be it whether to invest in an electric car or determining if a home renovation is worth the cost. While the feature takes a slightly longer time to load its responses, the payoff is in the level of detail and nuance it provides.
Here’s what makes Think Deeper stand out:
• It delves into extended discussions, ensuring that complex queries receive comprehensive answers.
• The feature leverages context from previous parts of the conversation, making follow-up questions more relevant and insightful.
• Although response times may increase, the trade-off is a more thorough exploration of topics that matter.
Imagine having a personal expert on your side who not only remembers the flow of your conversation but is also capable of analyzing intricate details with the precision of a seasoned consultant. That’s the promise of Think Deeper.
Users have noticed that:
• Navigating ongoing discussions is significantly smoother, as you no longer need to start from scratch with each query.
• The Sidebar now offers a more seamless method for accessing Copilot, eliminating the need to open new tabs or redirect your focus away from your current task.
• The upgraded Copilot effectively transforms the Sidebar into a centralized productivity hub—one that caters to both simple queries and multifaceted problems.
The consolidation of conversational history and advanced analytical capabilities makes the Edge Sidebar the frontrunner for using Copilot on a PC. For everyday users and power users alike, these enhancements transform the browsing experience by reducing friction and boosting workflow efficiency.
Consider these broader implications:
• Enhanced AI capabilities can fundamentally change how we interact with everyday applications, making our workflow more adaptive and responsive.
• Context preservation—in the form of conversation history—ensures continuous, more natural interactions that mimic a face-to-face conversation.
• The dynamic duo of conversation history and Think Deeper could serve as a blueprint for future integrations in other Windows applications, where the need for balance between quick answers and detailed reasoning is paramount.
It’s clear that the rapid advancements in AI aren’t just aimed at tech enthusiasts; they’re designed to empower everyday Windows users, transforming how we approach both work and leisure. While the introduction of a dedicated Copilot app for Windows 11 might eventually provide alternative or supplementary usage scenarios, for now, the Edge Sidebar remains the gold standard for executing these advanced AI features.
The juxtaposition of these new features with existing AI tools in the ecosystem creates a rich environment for both casual users and tech aficionados to experiment and explore. As questions about AI’s role in decision-making loom large, features like Think Deeper provide a balanced approach—offering depth while still urging users to apply their judgment.
As AI integration becomes more sophisticated, one has to ask: Will our future computing environments be predominantly AI-driven? How might these tools evolve to not just support but also enhance our creativity and critical thinking processes? While it’s too early to predict all the transformations on the horizon, one thing is certain: Windows 11 users are on the cutting edge of a significant shift in how technology understands and assists us.
For those who rely on Windows 11 for daily productivity, this update is more than just a novelty—it reflects a commitment to smarter, more integrated computing experiences. Whether you’re juggling multiple projects or simply enjoy exploring tech innovations, the new Copilot in the Edge Sidebar offers a glimpse into the future of AI on Windows.
In a world where decision-making often demands a balance between speed and depth, Microsoft’s latest push toward a more responsive and context-driven AI is a welcome change. As we await further updates, including the rolling out of a dedicated Copilot app for Windows 11, one thing remains clear: the evolution of AI within Windows is just getting started, and the future looks brighter—and smarter—than ever.
Source: Inkl My favorite Microsoft Edge feature just got an AI upgrade — is this the best way to use Copilot on Windows 11?
A New Chapter for Microsoft Edge’s Sidebar
Microsoft has long been a champion of blending innovation with everyday usability. For years, the Edge Sidebar has quietly delivered convenience by bundling your favorite tools—from messaging platforms like Telegram to utilities such as calculators—directly into the browser. But now, with AI enhancements led by Copilot updates, this “hidden gem” is ready to take center stage.Recent observations by keen-eyed users, including insights shared on Reddit, reveal that Copilot within the Edge Sidebar can now recall entire previous conversations. For many, this is a major win compared to the web version, which typically doesn’t allow for quick reference to past dialogues. In an era where context is king, preserving conversation history means users can engage in more continuous and productive interactions.
Key aspects of the new update include:
• Copilot now retains conversation history, allowing you to refer back to earlier chats without switching contexts.
• The integration of “Think Deeper,” a feature designed for complex, context-driven tasks, marks a significant stride in AI functionality within the browser.
• The upgrade is being rolled out gradually—so while some users have seen the changes, others might have to wait for the full deployment.
This incremental rollout underscores Microsoft’s cautious and measured approach to refining the user experience. Early testers report that while the conversation history is immediately available, the Think Deeper capability—built on OpenAI’s advanced o1 model—is still arriving on some systems.
Understanding Think Deeper
The Think Deeper feature represents a leap in how AI can support decision-making and in-depth problem-solving. Unlike standard Copilot responses that aim for quick answers, Think Deeper engages in multi-layered reasoning, making it a valuable tool for tasks that require more than surface-level analysis.Think Deeper is engineered to handle tasks like weighing the pros and cons of major decisions—be it whether to invest in an electric car or determining if a home renovation is worth the cost. While the feature takes a slightly longer time to load its responses, the payoff is in the level of detail and nuance it provides.
Here’s what makes Think Deeper stand out:
• It delves into extended discussions, ensuring that complex queries receive comprehensive answers.
• The feature leverages context from previous parts of the conversation, making follow-up questions more relevant and insightful.
• Although response times may increase, the trade-off is a more thorough exploration of topics that matter.
Imagine having a personal expert on your side who not only remembers the flow of your conversation but is also capable of analyzing intricate details with the precision of a seasoned consultant. That’s the promise of Think Deeper.
How the AI Upgrade Enhances the Edge Sidebar
For many, the Apple-to-Apple comparison is inevitable when new features arrive. Copilot on the web has been a reliable tool for many Windows users, but its inability to display previous conversations has been a notable drawback. By introducing conversation history directly in the Sidebar, the Edge experience is now more cohesive and context-aware.Users have noticed that:
• Navigating ongoing discussions is significantly smoother, as you no longer need to start from scratch with each query.
• The Sidebar now offers a more seamless method for accessing Copilot, eliminating the need to open new tabs or redirect your focus away from your current task.
• The upgraded Copilot effectively transforms the Sidebar into a centralized productivity hub—one that caters to both simple queries and multifaceted problems.
The consolidation of conversational history and advanced analytical capabilities makes the Edge Sidebar the frontrunner for using Copilot on a PC. For everyday users and power users alike, these enhancements transform the browsing experience by reducing friction and boosting workflow efficiency.
Step-by-Step: Getting the Most Out of the New Copilot
For those eager to harness these new capabilities, here’s a quick guide on using the enhanced Copilot in Microsoft Edge’s Sidebar:- Ensure Your Browser is Updated
• Make sure your Microsoft Edge browser is updated to the latest version that supports these new features.
• Check for any pending Windows or Edge updates that might include the incremental rollout of these AI enhancements. - Locate and Activate the Sidebar
• Open Microsoft Edge and look for the Sidebar toggle—usually located on the left side of the browser window.
• Expand the Sidebar to reveal the Copilot interface and other integrated tools. - Engage with Copilot
• Start a conversation with Copilot as you normally would. Notice how your queries and the dialog are maintained in a running history within the Sidebar.
• For more intricate questions, enable Think Deeper. Although the initial loading might take a few extra seconds, the response you receive will be enriched with deeper insights. - Evaluate and Use Detailed Outputs
• Analyze the detailed breakdowns provided by Think Deeper. Use these insights to inform decisions whether you’re exploring complex tech setups or weighing personal choices like a new gadget purchase.
• Remember, the AI is best used as a starting point for your thought process rather than the final arbiter of decisions. - Stay Updated on Future Developments
• With a dedicated Copilot app for Windows 11 currently in testing, the scope of AI integration is bound to expand. Keep an eye on notifications and news updates as Microsoft continues to refine their AI strategies.
Broader Implications: AI Integration in Windows 11
The evolution of AI within Microsoft Edge is not an isolated development—it’s part of a broader trend in Windows 11 and modern computing. As AI becomes more intertwined with user interfaces, expectations for contextual memory and intelligent assistance are on the rise.Consider these broader implications:
• Enhanced AI capabilities can fundamentally change how we interact with everyday applications, making our workflow more adaptive and responsive.
• Context preservation—in the form of conversation history—ensures continuous, more natural interactions that mimic a face-to-face conversation.
• The dynamic duo of conversation history and Think Deeper could serve as a blueprint for future integrations in other Windows applications, where the need for balance between quick answers and detailed reasoning is paramount.
It’s clear that the rapid advancements in AI aren’t just aimed at tech enthusiasts; they’re designed to empower everyday Windows users, transforming how we approach both work and leisure. While the introduction of a dedicated Copilot app for Windows 11 might eventually provide alternative or supplementary usage scenarios, for now, the Edge Sidebar remains the gold standard for executing these advanced AI features.
A Glimpse into the Future
Microsoft’s gradual rollout strategy indicates that while some users are already enjoying these upgrades, others might need a bit more time before they catch on. This staged approach not only allows Microsoft to fine-tune the functionality based on user feedback but also ensures a smoother transition for users across different hardware and software configurations.The juxtaposition of these new features with existing AI tools in the ecosystem creates a rich environment for both casual users and tech aficionados to experiment and explore. As questions about AI’s role in decision-making loom large, features like Think Deeper provide a balanced approach—offering depth while still urging users to apply their judgment.
As AI integration becomes more sophisticated, one has to ask: Will our future computing environments be predominantly AI-driven? How might these tools evolve to not just support but also enhance our creativity and critical thinking processes? While it’s too early to predict all the transformations on the horizon, one thing is certain: Windows 11 users are on the cutting edge of a significant shift in how technology understands and assists us.
Concluding Thoughts
Microsoft Edge’s latest update epitomizes the merging of convenience with advanced AI capabilities. By integrating persistent conversation history and the Think Deeper feature within its Sidebar, Edge is setting a new benchmark for AI assistants on Windows 11. These enhancements not only improve how quickly and effectively users can extract valuable insights but also underline an important trend: as AI becomes more context-aware, our tools will increasingly adapt to our needs.For those who rely on Windows 11 for daily productivity, this update is more than just a novelty—it reflects a commitment to smarter, more integrated computing experiences. Whether you’re juggling multiple projects or simply enjoy exploring tech innovations, the new Copilot in the Edge Sidebar offers a glimpse into the future of AI on Windows.
In a world where decision-making often demands a balance between speed and depth, Microsoft’s latest push toward a more responsive and context-driven AI is a welcome change. As we await further updates, including the rolling out of a dedicated Copilot app for Windows 11, one thing remains clear: the evolution of AI within Windows is just getting started, and the future looks brighter—and smarter—than ever.
Source: Inkl My favorite Microsoft Edge feature just got an AI upgrade — is this the best way to use Copilot on Windows 11?
