New AI assistant for Edge browser

Microsoft is testing a new AI-powered assistant named "Fix an issue" that helps users solve problems with its Edge browser. The tool is built into Edge’s settings and allows users to describe their issues or pick from common scenarios like videos that won’t play or websites that load slowly.

How the assistant works

The assistant analyzes user input and offers potential solutions, such as suggesting an updated graphics driver for video playback issues or checking internet connection speed for slow websites. However, it does not automatically apply these fixes, and users must take the suggested actions themselves, with no guarantee of success.

User data and privacy

To improve its recommendations, "Fix an issue" can access optional diagnostic data from Edge, including browser settings, but only with the user’s explicit consent. According to Microsoft, this data is collected only during a troubleshooting session and not permanently stored or used for background monitoring.

Data collection limitations

Users can choose not to share this information and can disable the collection in Edge’s settings under "Copilot and AI." This option applies only to the optional data used by the assistant, not to other diagnostic data collected by the browser under its standard settings.

Microsoft’s transparency

Microsoft has not provided a full list of the data used by the assistant or how long it is retained. The company states it has conducted privacy risk assessments before testing the tool but has not shared more details on the specific data processing involved. The assistant is currently in testing, and no official release date has been announced.