Microsoft makes Edge's Copilot Mode a bit smarter (www.engadget.com)

Microsoft updated Edge’s Copilot Mode with features it first teased in July, bringing deeper AI assistance into the browser. Key additions include Copilot Actions — AI-driven, multi-step workflows (now previewed in Edge after launching in the standard Copilot) that can automate tasks like unsubscribing from newsletters or booking a restaurant — and Journeys, which save project context (tabs, articles, videos) so you can pick up research later with recaps and suggested next steps. Edge’s Copilot can also optionally access your browsing history to personalize follow-ups, such as resurfacing a clothing item you viewed or recommending movies based on content you liked. These changes matter because they push browser-AI beyond single-turn queries into sustained, context-aware workflows that boost productivity but depend on persistent access to personal data. Microsoft says Copilot only collects what’s needed, requires explicit permission, and shows clear visual cues when active; browser data handling is governed by its privacy statement. The trade-off is clear: smoother, resumed workflows and more relevant suggestions in exchange for increased data access. The new Copilot features are available free in a U.S.-only limited preview; users should weigh convenience against privacy before granting permissions.