Microsoft is still dumping AI into all of its products at a ridiculous rate, with Copilot Mode now featured in Microsoft Edge. This introduces a new way of interacting with the web. Instead of typing a query into a search engine and reviewing multiple links, Copilot Mode delivers answers using AI-powered responses. This conversational approach is similar to what users may be familiar with from tools like ChatGPT, but it's now built directly into the browser. It's going to kill traditional websites in the process... So if you don't like this feature, here's how to disable it.

Takeaways:

  1. Where do you disable Copilot Mode in Microsoft Edge?
  2. Can you disable Copilot Mode in Microsoft Edge?

How to Enable or Disable Copilot Mode in Microsoft Edge on Windows 11

Not every user wants their browser to behave like an AI assistant. Fortunately, Microsoft allows you to turn Copilot Mode on or off based on your preferences. Follow these steps:

  • Open Microsoft Edge, then in the address bar, enter: edge://settings/help. This will ensure your browser is updated to the latest version, which is important for accessing AI features.
  • Once updated, navigate to Settings > AI Innovations.
  • The first time you access this section, you may be redirected to a dedicated Copilot settings page.
  • On this page, locate the toggle switch for Copilot Mode. You can turn it on or off depending on how you want to use the browser.

Disable or Enable and Use Copilot Mode in Microsoft Edge

After your initial setup, the toggle will be readily available within the AI Innovations menu, making future changes simple.

How to Use Copilot Mode in Microsoft Edge

Once enabled, Copilot Mode has a ton of conversational browsing experience. Rather than displaying a list of search engine results, Copilot interprets your queries and returns summarised responses. It's basically a ChatGPT clone... But here's a list of how things work if you're curious.

  • Search & Chat: This option allows you to explore information on the web or engage with the AI in real time to find answers or content quickly
  • Ask Copilot: Ideal for quick queries. Whether it's a definition, fact, or explanation, this mode delivers straightforward responses.
  • Think Deeper: This setting is for more complex inquiries. It provides thoughtful analysis and in-depth answers, useful for research or decision-making.
  • Action (Labs): Currently in experimental stages, this feature automates routine tasks. If you frequently use Edge for work-related tasks, Action can help streamline common activities.

Examples of tasks Action Mode can assist with include:

  • Composing and sending emails
  • Summarising long-form documents
  • Creating reminders or managing daily to-do lists
  • Booking appointments or retrieving information from connected services

While these features are handy, don't forget that AI had to steal all of the content it used to give you these abilities.

Important Limitations to Be Aware Of

Copilot Mode is not always active for every type of search. For example, if you search for keywords such as “YouTube” or “news,” Copilot may not provide a summarised AI response. Instead, it goes back to traditional search behaviour, displaying a standard list of websites for you to browse manually.