My favorite Microsoft Edge feature just got an AI upgrade — is this the best way to use Copilot on a PC?

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The Sidebar feature in Microsoft Edge has received an upgrade, particularly beneficial for AI users. Now, the Copilot within the Sidebar is capable of displaying past interactions and also includes the Think Deeper functionality.

Leo Varela noticed the new additions and posted about it on Reddit. However, since these updates are being released progressively, you might not yet have them available.

In Copilot, I can see past chats, but the Think Deeper feature hasn’t been made available in my web browser just yet.

As a researcher, I’ve incorporated enhancements that bring the Copilot in the Sidebar closer to parity with its web and Android counterparts in terms of functionalities. Interestingly, the new version of Copilot in the Sidebar surpasses its web variant as it now displays previous conversations, offering a more seamless and engaging user experience.

At least for me, Copilot on the web does not show a way to review previous conversations.

What is Think Deeper?

The Think Deeper function, which is supported by OpenAI’s o1 model, is specifically engineered for intricate tasks that necessitate understanding of context and comparisons.

Consider Thoroughly could help you weigh the advantages and disadvantages when deciding whether to purchase an electric vehicle or undertake home renovations.

By its very title, “Think Deeper” is ideal for dialogues that necessitate careful consideration and caters particularly to prolonged discussions.

As a researcher, I’ve found that when I use Think Deeper instead of the standard Copilot, it requires a bit more patience while loading, but the responses it provides are significantly more comprehensive.

During my tests, I’ve found that Copilot’s subsequent questions significantly improve when the Think Deeper function is utilized. While it’s crucial not to rely too heavily on AI for decision-making, Think Deeper serves as a useful tool to stimulate dialogue and offer context for more complex subjects.

Users of Copilot have the opportunity to utilize Think Deeper at no cost, while Copilot Premium subscribers are granted priority access during periods of high demand.

Microsoft Edge Sidebar

Ever since Microsoft Edge Sidebar was introduced during its testing phase, I’ve been an avid supporter. In fact, I referred to it as the “unsung hero among browser features” way back in 2022.

The sidebar functions as a collapsible panel where you can access various items, such as chat applications like Telegram or utilities such as a calculator, on-the-fly.

I primarily employ the Sidebar feature in Microsoft Edge mainly for previewing Microsoft Edge Drop (a lesser-known but useful tool on Edge) and to check the appearance of Windows Central articles on mobile devices.

Since its original release, this particular aspect has undergone multiple enhancements. One of the most significant changes is that users can now quickly reach Copilot without switching tabs or navigating elsewhere.

Previously, the Copilot available within the Edge Sidebar had certain restrictions compared to its web counterpart. However, by incorporating a feature that records our conversation history, we’ve managed to bridge the gap and make the Sidebar version of Copilot equivalent to the web-based Copilot.

Including Think Deeper as an extra feature is certainly an improvement. With this added functionality plus the other available options, utilizing Copilot within the Sidebar on a computer could be considered the optimal way to make the most of Copilot.

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2025-03-26 16:39