Windows Copilot Tests Side-Pane Web Links for Insiders

Key Takeaways

1. Microsoft introduces a new Copilot app experience for Windows Insiders that keeps web links within the app, opening them in a side panel beside the chat conversation.
2. The feature aims to reduce context switching, allowing users to view content without leaving the chat discussion.
3. The app incorporates tab-aware assistance, enabling Copilot to use the context of open tabs for follow-up queries and content summarization.
4. Users can revisit previous conversations as tabs opened during chats are stored, and optional syncing for passwords and form data can be activated.
5. The updated Copilot app is rolling out across all Windows Insider channels, enhancing speed, reliability, and functionality without replacing a full browser.


Microsoft has begun to introduce a fresh Copilot app experience for Windows Insiders, which maintains web links within the app. Now, when users click on a link, it opens in a side panel beside the chat conversation instead of launching a new browser window. This allows users to view content without having to leave the ongoing discussion.

Simplifying User Experience

The concept is simple: reduce context switching. Microsoft explains that this feature aims to prevent users from constantly flipping between Copilot and their web browser whenever the assistant references a source or a web page.

Enhanced Assistance Features

Moreover, Microsoft is incorporating tab-aware assistance into this new design. With user consent, Copilot can utilize the context of the tabs open in that specific conversation to respond to follow-up queries, compare details from different pages, summarize on-screen content, or aid in drafting text based on the materials currently being viewed. This access is restricted to the ongoing conversation only.

Tabs that are opened in this manner are also stored with the chat, allowing users to revisit the same conversation at a later time and continue from where they left off. Additionally, Microsoft mentions that optional syncing for passwords and form data can be activated for those seeking a more integrated browsing experience within the app.

Rolling Out to Users

This feature is starting to be available across all Windows Insider channels as part of an updated Copilot app. Microsoft claims that this release also enhances the app’s speed and reliability while introducing newer Copilot features that were previously available on the web version. The rollout affects Copilot app version 146.0.3856.39 and later, although its availability will gradually expand and may vary depending on the market.

While this update does not replace a full browser, it does enhance the Windows app’s functionality for tasks that require extensive research. For Microsoft, this represents another move towards making Copilot seem less like a detached chatbot and more like an integrated workspace.

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