Microsoft is advancing its AI assistant, Copilot, within the Edge browser by introducing a new "Action Mode," currently in testing in Edge Canary builds. This feature aims to transform Copilot from a simple chatbot into a comprehensive browser assistant capable of automating everyday tasks such as scheduling, setting reminders, and performing online actions that typically require multiple steps.
The "Action Mode" appears alongside existing options like Explore, Quick Response, and Think Deeper on Edge's New Tab Page. Its primary function is to enable users to delegate routine tasks directly to Copilot, leveraging AI to streamline processes that would otherwise be manual and time-consuming.
Microsoft has recently announced Copilot Actions, allowing users to prompt Copilot to complete real-world web tasks, such as making reservations, booking travel, or sending gifts. This feature is currently available to Copilot Pro subscribers in the U.S. and works in modern browsers. It's also accessible on Copilot.com under the Labs section as part of Microsoft's experimental AI initiatives, providing users early access to automation features outside of Edge.
Once a task is initiated, users can pause, stop, or adjust it at any time. Microsoft has provided example prompts to demonstrate Copilot Actions' capabilities, emphasizing that more specific prompts yield better results. Examples include:
- "Order me a bouquet of flowers using 1800Flowers.com"
- "Book me a stay using Booking.com"
- "Book me a travel package using Expedia.com"
- "Reserve me a hotel room using Hotels.com"
- "Book me a car rental using Kayak.com"
- "Make me a dinner reservation using OpenTable.com"
- "Book me a cruise using Priceline.com"
This development is part of Microsoft's broader strategy to enhance Copilot's functionality and integration within Edge. Recently, Edge has been testing a Copilot-powered New Tab Page with an AI feed, including Quick Assist, which delivers summaries directly below the address bar. These enhancements aim to provide a more seamless and efficient browsing experience by leveraging AI to assist with a variety of tasks directly within the browser.
As Microsoft continues to refine and expand Copilot's capabilities, users can anticipate more features designed to simplify and automate their online activities, making Edge not just a browser but a comprehensive assistant for daily tasks.
Source: Windows Report Microsoft Edge Tests New ‘Action’ Mode for Copilot to Handle Everyday Tasks
