Microsoft Edge is eliminating sidebar applications as part of the ongoing effort to declutter Windows 11.

Microsoft Edge is eliminating sidebar applications as part of the ongoing effort to declutter Windows 11.

      Microsoft Edge is set to lose one of its more unusual features as Microsoft continues to refine its software. The company has confirmed that the sidebar app list in Edge will be "retired" soon, starting with users signed into Microsoft accounts. In an announcement, Microsoft stated that this move is part of efforts to simplify the Edge experience, although no specific retirement date has been provided yet.

      What are sidebar apps, and why are they being removed?

      Edge's sidebar allows users to pin web apps and sites in a side panel, enabling quick access to tools like Outlook, shopping utilities, search functions, and other web applications without navigating away from the current tab. Microsoft previously described this feature as a means to enhance access to favorite sites and applications.

      However, this feature is now being removed. Microsoft asserts that new apps can no longer be added to the sidebar, and existing pinned apps will be removed in a forthcoming update. This change will be implemented gradually and included in future Edge updates. Users will receive notifications about this feature's removal before it is entirely phased out.

      Copilot will remain, of course.

      Some users have expressed frustration over this change, particularly those who rely on this feature. The sidebar app list was a standout feature that made Edge feel different from other Chromium-based browsers, providing users with a convenient mini-app setup within the browser. For those who have integrated it into their workflows, Split Screen does not offer a suitable alternative.

      Microsoft's support page clarifies that the retirement of the sidebar app list will not impact Copilot. The company plans to continue enhancing Copilot within Edge, meaning the AI assistant will persist despite the removal of third-party or user-pinned sidebar apps.

Microsoft Edge is eliminating sidebar applications as part of the ongoing effort to declutter Windows 11. Microsoft Edge is eliminating sidebar applications as part of the ongoing effort to declutter Windows 11. Microsoft Edge is eliminating sidebar applications as part of the ongoing effort to declutter Windows 11. Microsoft Edge is eliminating sidebar applications as part of the ongoing effort to declutter Windows 11. Microsoft Edge is eliminating sidebar applications as part of the ongoing effort to declutter Windows 11. Microsoft Edge is eliminating sidebar applications as part of the ongoing effort to declutter Windows 11.

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Microsoft Edge is eliminating sidebar applications as part of the ongoing effort to declutter Windows 11.

Microsoft is discontinuing the sidebar app list in Edge as part of its effort to simplify the browser, eliminating pinned web applications but retaining Copilot.