Copilot Gets Built-In Browser and Tabs on Windows and Mac

After starting tests in March, Microsoft announced that the Copilot app for Windows and macOS will receive a built-in browser with tab support. The change comes at a time when AI integration in workflows is gaining prominence, sparking interest from both corporate and individual users.

Browsing inside Copilot

When a user clicks a link inside Copilot, the page opens in a panel next to the conversation, without leaving the app. The feature allows users to switch between the conversation and web content seamlessly, similar to the behavior observed in apps like Microsoft Teams.

How tabbed browsing works

The side panel supports multiple tabs, each displaying a different website. Users can resize the panel, enter full-screen mode, or close tabs when they are no longer needed. It is also possible to open the link in an external browser from the three-dot menu or by copying the URL.

Availability and activation for businesses

The feature is available via opt-in for administrators, who can enable the "BrowsingEnabled" policy on managed devices. General availability is scheduled to begin in late November 2026, expanding on the initial test already in production.

Privacy and data storage

Browsing history, cookies, and autofill information are stored locally, following the same storage model as Microsoft Edge. The data is saved in the "%localappdata%\\Microsoft\\Copilot\\User Data" directory on the user's device.

Impact on daily usage

With the built-in browser, users who already use Copilot can look up web information without switching apps, potentially reducing the time spent on tasks that combine research and content generation. The experience still depends on the adoption of the feature, as changing habits can be a challenge for those who prefer their default browser.

With information from Windows Central, BetaNews.