Microsoft to auto-launch Copilot in Edge whenever you click a link from Outlook
The Register
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Microsoft has announced that its Edge browser will automatically open the Copilot side pane when users click on links from Outlook. This feature, set to roll out starting in May 2026, aims to provide contextual insights and actionable suggestions based on email content and the destination of the clicked link. According to Microsoft, this update is designed to enhance user productivity by offering quick understanding of content, enabling faster actions, and extending productive browsing time within Edge. The move aligns with Microsoft's broader strategy of integrating Copilot into its ecosystem wherever possible.
The rollout will occur globally across standard multi-tenant cloud instances, but details about whether the feature will be opt-in or opt-out remain unclear. This has raised concerns among enterprise administrators, who may face challenges in managing data security policies when Copilot surfaces suggestions based on email content. Jon von Tetzchner, CEO of Vivaldi, criticized Microsoft's approach, calling it "another example of trying to push Edge in every way possible and forcing Copilot on users that may not want it." He emphasized the potential risks of exposing sensitive corporate emails to AI-powered snooping, highlighting concerns about security, privacy, and phishing vulnerabilities.
Microsoft's decision to auto-launch Copilot in Edge reflects its aggressive strategy to embed its AI assistant into as many products as possible. While this could offer convenience for some users, it raises significant questions about control and data security. Enterprise administrators, already grappling with managing Copilot across Microsoft's productivity suite, may find themselves forced to address yet another layer of complexity. The lack of clarity on opt-in or opt-out options further complicates the issue, particularly for organizations prioritizing privacy and data protection.
This update underscores the growing challenge of balancing AI integration with user control and security in tech products. As Copilot continues to expand its reach across Microsoft's ecosystem, the need for clear guidelines and user-friendly controls becomes increasingly critical. For now, the rollout remains pending, but it is likely to spark further debate among users, administrators, and privacy advocates about the appropriate role of AI in productivity tools like Edge and Outlook.
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Originally published on The Register on 2/26/2026