Microsoft Starts Phasing Out Edge Sidebar as Copilot Takes Priority

Microsoft is removing the Sidebar feature from Microsoft Edge as part of a broader effort to simplify the browser experience, as Windows Latest reports.

Sidebar removal begins in Edge

Microsoft has started phasing out the Sidebar app list, a feature that allowed users to run mini web apps directly inside the browser. The rollout begins with Microsoft account users, and while there is no confirmed final removal date, changes are already visible.

Users can no longer add new apps to the Sidebar. Existing integrations, such as Outlook, still function for now, but Microsoft plans to remove the feature entirely in upcoming updates.

What remains in the Sidebar

Not everything tied to the Sidebar will disappear. Microsoft plans to keep core integrations such as Microsoft Copilot, which continues to play a central role in Edge’s future.

Search functionality powered by Bing will likely remain accessible in some form, even as the broader Sidebar experience fades away.

Why Microsoft is removing the feature

Microsoft describes the change as part of a “decluttering” initiative aimed at simplifying Edge and focusing on core experiences. The company appears to shift its attention toward AI-driven features, especially Copilot, while reducing UI complexity.

This move aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy of integrating AI deeper into its products while streamlining legacy or less-used features.

User backlash and concerns

The decision has triggered frustration among users who relied on the Sidebar for multitasking. Many considered it one of Edge’s standout features compared to other Chromium-based browsers.

The Sidebar allowed quick access to tools like email, shopping utilities, and messaging apps without switching tabs. Its removal may push some users to explore alternative browsers that still offer similar functionality.

A contradiction in strategy

Microsoft continues to position Edge as a priority product. Satya Nadella recently emphasized the importance of improving both Windows and Edge, highlighting steady growth.

Edge has reportedly increased its market share for 20 consecutive quarters, while Bing surpassed 1 billion monthly active users. Despite this growth, removing a widely used feature creates tension between simplification and user expectations.

What to expect next

The Sidebar will gradually disappear across future Edge updates. Microsoft will likely double down on Copilot and a cleaner interface, reducing feature clutter in the process.

At the same time, the company risks alienating power users who valued the productivity boost the Sidebar offered.

In parallel, Microsoft recently fixed a crash affecting protected PDFs in Edge. However, some issues remain unresolved, including a bug that disrupts access to Teams meetings for certain users.

Overall, the removal of the Sidebar signals a clear shift toward minimalism and AI integration in Edge’s evolution, even if it comes at the cost of features users actively used.