Microsoft Edge
4.0Microsoft Edge is a free web browser with the Copilot AI assistant built in, offering AI tab organization, image generation, security protections, and cross-device syncing.
About
Microsoft Edge is a free web browser developed by Microsoft that integrates the Copilot AI assistant directly into the browsing experience. It is designed to address the common problem of juggling separate tools for search, comparison shopping, tab management, and security by combining them into one application that runs on Windows, macOS, and mobile devices.
At its core, Edge works like any modern browser for visiting websites, but it layers AI features on top: Copilot can read across open tabs to compare options, explain content, and help complete tasks, using browsing history to personalize its assistance over time. Additional built-in tools handle image generation, AI-driven tab cleanup, scareware blocking, and battery-saving optimizations. Microsoft also ties Edge closely to its own services, including Bing search, Microsoft Rewards, and free Microsoft 365 web apps.
Key Features
Pricing & Fees
- Pricing: Microsoft Edge is free to download and use; no paid browser plans are listed on the pages reviewed.
- Cross-device sync: Passwords, favorites, and settings sync across devices, and a mobile app is available.
- Gaming support: Microsoft Edge for Game Bar is described as the first in-game browser built specifically for PC gaming, letting players access guides and sites without leaving a game.
- Microsoft ecosystem integration: Includes quick access to free Microsoft 365 web apps (internet access required; fees may apply) and Microsoft Rewards points when searching with Bing.
- Update cadence: Microsoft ships new Edge features every month, and feature availability varies by device type, market, and browser version.
Who It's For
Microsoft Edge suits everyday web users who want an AI assistant available while browsing, along with built-in security and performance tools. Students and researchers can use Copilot to compare options and explain content across tabs. PC gamers benefit from the in-game browser in Game Bar. People who work across multiple devices will appreciate the syncing of passwords, favorites, and settings. It is also a practical choice for anyone already using Bing, Microsoft 365, or Microsoft Rewards and wanting tighter integration with those services.
FAQ
What is Microsoft Edge?Microsoft Edge is a free web browser made by Microsoft that includes the Copilot AI assistant, security protections, performance features, and cross-device syncing.
Is Microsoft Edge free to use?Yes, Microsoft Edge is free to download and use, though some connected services such as Microsoft 365 web apps may involve fees and require internet access.
Which platforms does Microsoft Edge run on?Edge is available across devices, including desktop and mobile versions, and Microsoft offers an in-game browser through Game Bar for PC gaming; feature availability varies by device, market, and browser version.
How does Copilot in Edge use browsing history?According to Microsoft, Copilot uses browsing history to provide smarter, more personalized help over time, such as comparing options across tabs and completing tasks.
What security features does Microsoft Edge include?Edge includes Microsoft Defender SmartScreen, phishing and malware blocking, password management, Edge Secure Network, and a scareware blocker that protects against scareware attacks.