The Copilot new tab page in Microsoft Edge replaces your normal browser start screen with an AI chat box and smart shortcuts on Windows 11. Microsoft adds this layout by default in Edge version 120 and newer to give you quick access to writing help and web searches.
You can turn this feature on or off in your browser settings if you prefer a clean start screen without AI tools. Turning it off brings back your usual background pictures and favorite website shortcuts in a few clicks.
To enable or disable the Copilot new tab page, open Edge settings, navigate to Appearance, and toggle the “Show Copilot button” option. This setting controls whether the AI chat interface appears on your new tab page.
Why use the Copilot new tab page?
Switching to this mode transforms the default new tab screen into a streamlined search and chat hub. Finding answers happens faster through direct AI interaction inside the search box. Custom themes and smart suggestions tailored to current browsing activity round out the experience.
What happens when you are done?
Turning on the Copilot new tab page replaces your standard new tab screen with an AI-powered search box and chat interface in Microsoft Edge. Turning it off brings back your classic layout with your usual background and quick links. You see this change instantly on every new tab you open after saving your settings.
Microsoft Edge doubles as a personal AI assistant. Activating Copilot mode brings conversational search directly to the forefront of the browsing routine.
Introducing Copilot Mode in Edge: A new way to browse the web
Web browsing habits remained largely unchanged for years. AI now alters information interaction by accelerating retrieval and adding context.
Microsoft Edge Browser Policy Documentation CopilotNewTabPageEnabled
How to change your Copilot settings
- Open Microsoft Edge.
- Click the Settings and more menu (the three dots in the top right corner, or press Alt+F).
- Select Settings.
- Look at the left-hand menu. Click on AI innovations or Start, home, and new tab page.
- If you do not see the menu, click the three-bar icon in the top left or stretch your browser window wider.
- Find the setting for Copilot new tab page.
- Switch the toggle to On or Off based on your preference.
Changing your Copilot new tab settings takes just a few clicks inside the Microsoft Edge browser menu. You open the main settings page, find the controls for your new tabs, and switch the option on or off based on your preferences. These steps work on any Windows 11 PC running a modern version of Edge.


Closing the settings tab finalizes the process. Edge saves your changes automatically.
Summary
Standard browser start screens give way to an AI-centric interface with the Copilot new tab page enabled. Toggling the feature on or off happens through the Edge settings menu whenever preferences shift. Administrator permissions remain unnecessary because changes apply exclusively to individual user profiles.
Was this guide helpful?
About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!