Microsoft Edge Trials AI-Enhanced MSN Feed Featuring Ads: Here’s How to Disable It

Exploring Microsoft Edge’s Innovative Copilot Mode and Enhanced MSN Feed

Microsoft Edge users are in for an exciting update as the browser rolls out its new Copilot mode. This mode replaces the traditional New Tab Page with a dynamic compose box powered by advanced AI features. Users now have the ability to seamlessly toggle between Bing search and the refreshed Copilot search experience. Below the compose window, the MSN feed has undergone a transformative upgrade, now curated by Copilot’s AI, echoing the curation observed in the Windows 11 widgets board.

What’s New in the MSN Feed?

The redesign has introduced a cleaner look, making the feed visually spacious. Users with high-resolution monitors (like 2K) will notice significantly more white space, providing a less congested interface compared to the previous version. For those who appreciate a tidy browsing environment, the new layout of the Edge’s MSN feed is a welcome improvement—reducing distractions and enhancing navigability.

Comparison of old and new MSN feeds in Edge

New screenshots comparing the older stable version of Edge with the current Edge Canary version underline this transformative shift, suggesting that Microsoft is committed to creating a more user-friendly launch experience.

Ads and AI-Curated Content

While the layout enhancement is commendable, users may find the advertisement integration less appealing. The new MSN feed retains a familiar feature from its predecessor: ad tiles labeled as “sponsored” that appear throughout the feed. Unfortunately, these ads cannot be hidden without affecting the overall feed experience. Users do have the option to report specific ads, but this action does not eliminate the sponsored content.

Sponsored ads in the new AI MSN feed on Edge

In addition to advertisements, the feed includes Copilot-curated cards, providing insightful summaries of current topics trending online. An example is showcased with a card related to JBL speakers that prominently features source attribution alongside a sizable banner image.

Copilot curated cards in MSN feed on Edge

Customizing Your Browsing Experience

If the AI-curated content doesn’t resonate with your browsing preferences, Edge includes a straightforward way to customize the experience. Users can opt to disable the feed altogether for a simplified view. To do this, simply navigate to the Settings and toggle off the Show feed option. However, the ability to filter out sponsored ads or hide Copilot-generated cards isn’t currently provided, which is a feature many users are hoping for.

As the Copilot labs features are still in testing, it’s anticipated that future updates will introduce more refined options for customization before reaching the stable release. Currently, users manage these settings through flags, yet dedicated user-friendly settings are expected to enhance functionality in subsequent updates.

Conclusion

The introduction of Copilot mode in Microsoft Edge represents a significant evolution in user experience, combining intuitive AI features with a refreshed interface. While some aspects, like ad integration, can detract from the browsing experience, the overall enhancements promise a modern approach to web navigation and content curation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Microsoft Edge’s Copilot mode?

Copilot mode is a new feature in Microsoft Edge that transforms the browser’s New Tab Page into an AI-enhanced composition box, allowing users to switch seamlessly between the Bing search and Copilot-based search functionalities.

2. How can I customize the new MSN feed in Edge?

To customize the MSN feed, go to Settings and toggle the Show feed option off for a cleaner browsing experience. Currently, there’s no option to filter ads or hide Copilot cards.

3. Are there ads in the new MSN feed and can they be removed?

Yes, the new MSN feed does include ads, which are labeled as “sponsored.” While you can report ads, there is no option to hide them if you wish to keep the MSN feed active.

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