Microsoft Copilot to Embed Browser Directly Into AI Assistant, Raising Competition Concerns

Summary

Microsoft is rolling out an update to its Copilot AI assistant for Windows Insiders that embeds web browsing directly into the application. Instead of opening links in users' default browsers, the update will display web content in a side panel within Copilot itself, using Microsoft's Edge browser via the WebView2 control. The feature aims to help users maintain context during conversations by keeping web content alongside their AI interactions. Copilot will also be able to access the context of tabs opened within the assistant and save them with conversations for later reference.

The update has sparked criticism from browser vendors and competition advocates who view it as Microsoft attempting to steer users away from their chosen default browsers. Bruce Lawson, Vivaldi's Technical Communications Officer, called the behavior "impertinent and discourteous" if not implemented as opt-in, noting that users have become accustomed to links opening in their preferred browser with personalized settings. Microsoft has not responded to questions about whether the feature will be opt-in or which browser engine powers the embedded experience.

The feature will also offer optional password and form data synchronization, though this has raised privacy concerns among users still wary from Microsoft's Windows Recall controversy. As part of the update, some Copilot features are being added while others are being temporarily removed as Microsoft iterates on the experience. The update is currently in preview for Windows Insiders with a gradual rollout planned across all Insider channels.

• Optional password and form synchronization raises privacy concerns following previous Windows Recall issues
• The update is currently in preview for Windows Insiders with gradual rollout planned