microsoft is removing the ability to pin web apps and websites to the sidebar in Microsoft Edge. A future update will remove all apps that users have already added. The feature will still technically exist, but the core functionality that many relied on is being retired. Microsoft has not announced a specific date for this change.
The company described the removal as part of an effort to simplify Edge. Its support document confirms that Copilot will not be affected, and Microsoft says it “continues to improve and refine” the feature.
Users have started a petition asking Microsoft to keep the sidebar as is. Complaints have also been filed through the company’s feedback portal. However, neither has prompted a public response from Microsoft.
What Microsoft is removing from the Edge sidebar
The sidebar used to allow users to pin web applications and websites for quick access from any browser tab. That feature will be removed entirely. Existing pinned apps will be removed in a future update.
Copilot can be accessed through the sidebar area, effectively making it a shortcut to Copilot once the web app pin is removed. Microsoft has not said whether other sidebar features will remain.
Why Edge Sidebar Changes Frustrate Some Users
The previous version of the sidebar existed before Copilot was introduced in Edge. Microsoft has not addressed user concerns that removing web app pinning while keeping Copilot available reduces the browser’s flexibility and emphasizes its own artificial intelligence assistant. The company has not provided detailed technical reasons for this change, and only offers a general explanation on how to simplify Edge.
This update does not affect the availability or functionality of Copilot, which can be accessed through the same part of the browser interface.
