Microsoft is removing a feature from Edge that uses AI to search your browsing history. Admin policies are causing confusion as to whether that is actually the case.
The ‘enhanced search’ feature rolled out in Edge 138 last year. The feature made it possible to search your browsing history via a chat interface to find previously visited websites faster. The feature didn’t really catch on, so Microsoft decided to turn back the clock with the recently released Edge 150 update.
Confusing policies
That would be the end of it, you might think. TechRepublic notes that traces of the feature can still be found in the Edge policies for IT admins. The EdgeHistoryAISearchEnabled, policy, which allowed the feature to be turned on or off for managed devices, remains active in the latest version of Edge.
Whether Microsoft is leaving the door ajar to bring the feature back one day is unclear. Via the official 365 roadmap, Microsoft clearly states that AI-driven search history is being completely removed from Edge and even apologizes for ‘any inconvenience’ it may have caused.
Recall 2.0
The Edge feature was reminiscent of Recall, another failed experiment by Microsoft with AI-driven search. With Recall, you can search every mouse click on your PC to find information. Although the feature only rolled out to the limited group of Copilot+ PCs, it has faced pushback from all sides. For now, Recall continues to survive.
Microsoft has had to realize that forcing AI throughout its entire ecosystem has had a counterproductive effect. The Edge browser is even being gradually unburdened of artificial intelligence: previously, the ‘Copilot mode’ also had to go. This fits into a broader plan by Microsoft to breathe new life into Windows 11 with fewer intrusive and useless Copilot integrations.