Microsoft Edge is poised to enhance its user experience with a suite of new AI-driven features. Among these advancements, the browser is reportedly experimenting with the Web Push API, which promises to refine how notifications are managed within Windows 11. Additionally, users can expect improved security measures concerning downloads and clipboard activities.
Browser researcher Leo has highlighted the potential introduction of a comprehensive AI History search feature in Edge. Initially thought to be exclusive to Google Chrome, this capability appears set to extend its benefits to Chromium-based browsers, including Microsoft Edge. However, questions linger: Is Microsoft developing its own distinct AI History feature, or is it simply adopting the existing Chrome AI search functionality?
Windows Latest has confirmed that the AI-powered history search feature is indeed on its way to Microsoft Edge. This feature is designed to provide users with “AI recommendations from embedded web passages” whenever they conduct a history search. Notably, it will be an optional toggle that users can activate at their discretion.
Once enabled, users can initiate a search by typing @history in the address bar, allowing them to utilize everyday language to find information. This AI-enhanced search capability will enable users to locate content even if they cannot recall the website name, the exact keywords, or the date of their visit. However, it may necessitate signing into a Microsoft account and using a high-performance computer, as Edge will store history locally. Furthermore, the AI functionalities will only apply to websites visited after the feature has been activated. There is speculation that a Microsoft account may be required to verify users’ age, although this has yet to be confirmed.
Better sleeping tabs, security features?
In addition to AI advancements, references have emerged regarding the “msDiscardExpiredTabsActionThresholdSeconds,” which pertains to the management of sleeping tabs within Microsoft Edge. Currently, Edge aims to optimize memory usage by placing inactive tabs into a sleep state. This new feature may allow Microsoft to experiment with the quicker discarding or “expiring” of these tabs.
Moreover, two intriguing security-related features have been identified: msProvenanceValidatorToggleOnByDefault and msProtectedClipboard. The former may relate to verifying the source of downloaded files or extensions, while the latter could serve as a privacy enhancement, safeguarding clipboard contents from unauthorized JavaScript access.
Lastly, the mention of msEdgeMetaOSOlympus raises curiosity—could this be a codename for a new redesign of Edge or perhaps a forthcoming Windows release? The answer remains elusive, leaving room for speculation and anticipation.
