Windows 11’s Microsoft Edge Encourages Users to Utilize Copilot for AI-Generated Emails, Social Media Posts, and More

Microsoft Edge Introduces Enhanced Copilot Features for Draft Revisions

Microsoft Edge is rapidly evolving with innovative Copilot elements being integrated, solidifying its status as a center for cutting-edge technology. With features like chat, vision, and search already embedded, a new auto-popup feature named “Rewrite with Copilot”is currently undergoing testing. This advancement will automatically prompt users to rewrite highlighted text, streamlining the writing process significantly.

Presently, when users select text within various applications (like email or writing tools) and right-click, a context menu appears, showing the “Rewrite with Copilot” option alongside other choices. However, Microsoft appears to be unsatisfied with this implementation and is seeking a more proactive approach.

Browser researcher Leo recently uncovered a hidden feature in Edge Canary that could annoy users. This function will automatically display a floating pop-up suggestion for rewriting any selected text, potentially disrupting the user experience.

Help me write pop-up in Microsoft Edge — Automatic ‘Help me write’ pop-up in Microsoft Edge when text is highlighted.

This new feature could be intrusive, introducing a constant pop-up every time a selection is made, unless Microsoft includes an option for users to disable it. Critics have expressed concerns that such an addition might lead to frustration, particularly if implemented in the stable version of the browser. The “Rewrite with Copilot” tool is not entirely new, having been available for over a year, but it seems Microsoft is eager to increase its visibility and usage.

While the current consumer version of Edge offers the “Rewrite with Copilot” option, Microsoft is also focusing on enhancing this tool for business users. Professional users may find the functionality particularly useful, as they often face the challenge of refining longer messages for clarity and professionalism.

Copilot Integration for Business Users

As reported by Windows Latest, Microsoft has indicated plans for a broader rollout of this feature to business users, as noted in a 365 Roadmap ID numbered 420335. The feature aims to function similarly in the Edge for Business version without significant alterations.

In the consumer edition of Edge, the Rewrite with Copilot tool appears in a floating window that simplifies the text, as shown in the example below. It can condense text and enhance formality by rewriting phrases like “asap” into their full forms. However, the inability to resize or move this floating window has been a frustrating limitation.

To apply the new suggestion, users must click “Replace.” Upon further interactions with the “Rewrite with Copilot” option, the AI generates slight variations of the text. If the output is not satisfactory, users have the option to click on the Try again button for a different result.

The tool is not restricted to a single output. It features an ‘Adjust’ button that allows for further customization:

Tone: Choose between professional, casual, humorous, enthusiastic, or informational tones.
Format: Generate content in various formats like paragraphs, bullet points, blogs, or emails.
Length: Adjust output length to small, medium, or long presets for more precise control.

While some may not find it useful in all professional contexts, the tool’s output is reminiscent of results from services like Grammarly or other writing aids.

It’s worth noting that the rewrite capabilities are tied closely to the original length of the input text. For instance, when trying to expand a 37-word message to 50 or more using the preset bullet points, variations remained limited, even when choosing longer options.

As Microsoft moves forward with integrating the Rewrite with Copilot feature into Edge for Business, they have already begun a phased rollout that started last month. However, it may take time for all users to see this functionality, as administrators have the ability to manage its availability through the InlineComposeEnabled policy.

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