Microsoft's default web browser for Windows 11, Edge, is set to enhance its text editing features significantly. The updates include Copilot-assisted rewriting, improved clipboard functionality, and new support for handwritten input via stylus on web forms and pages.
At the heart of these enhancements is Windows Copilot, Microsoft's AI assistant that has been progressively integrated across Windows 11 and its various applications, including Edge. Initially pitched as a tool capable of aiding with any task on your device, Copilot is steadily advancing towards fulfilling this promise.
One notable addition is the AI compose feature. This new function will offer rewriting suggestions for text selected by users in editable areas of a webpage. It aims to aid writers by suggesting enhancements in phrasing and sentence structure. Additionally, users will have the flexibility to modify the tone, format, or length of the text based on these suggestions.
The functionality has drawn comparisons to Grammarly, a popular AI-powered writing tool. This move by Microsoft positions Copilot as a formidable contender against Google's Gemini project, which is rumoured to introduce similar capabilities to the Chrome browser.
Support for digital pen input and more
Edge is also expanding its compatibility with digital pens. Users will now be able to input text directly into web pages by writing in input fields, with their handwriting being converted into typed text. Further enhancements with Windows Ink support in Edge will allow users to:
- Enter text by writing with a pen in or near an input field.
- Erase text by scribbling over words.
- Adjust spacing by drawing vertical lines.
- Insert line breaks by drawing horizontal lines.
Additionally, the upcoming EditContext API tool for web developers will simplify the creation of custom text editors. Improvements to the copy-and-paste function will enable more reliable copying and pasting of formatted, rich HTML content. There will also be more control given to developers over Edge's text prediction capabilities.
Microsoft is optimistic about the potential impact of these updates on the Edge browser, citing the significant role of form submission and text editing in the success of the web. The company is also open to feedback to further refine these features, encouraging users to actively engage and provide insights.
