If 2025 was all about Microsoft adding features (including Copilot) to all of its apps, then 2026 seems to be the year where Microsoft begins rolling back those features (including Copilot) to a more sensible level. We've already seen the company go back to the drawing board with Windows 11, pulling back on Copilot's integration while also working on core parts of the OS, like File Explorer.

Well, it seems that Microsoft isn't just focusing on Windows 11. It's also turning a critical eye to its browser, Microsoft Edge, in a bid to make it more appealing for Windows users. And, much like what we're seeing with the OS, we'll see some features trimmed back... as long as it's not Copilot.

Microsoft is retiring the sidebar app list on Microsoft Edge

We're not sure when, exactly

As spotted by Windows Latest, Microsoft has updated its Edge sidebar documentation with a new retirement announcement. While we knew Microsoft Edge's sidebar would eventually be removed via the Canary branch, we didn't know why it was leaving. Now, Microsoft has explained that it's a bid to simplify the software:

Sidebar app list is being retired

We’re simplifying Microsoft Edge. The sidebar app list will be retired in the near future, starting with Microsoft account (MSA) users. There is no confirmed retirement date at this time.

New apps can no longer be added to the sidebar, and apps currently pinned in the app tower will be removed in a future update.

Microsoft then very specifically states that this will not affect Copilot in any way, as the company works to "improve and enhance it."

Windows Latest reports that they've heard from "dozens of users" that they'd leave Microsoft Edge if the sidebar were ever removed, so it seems like it was a big hit with the app's fans. Here's hoping Microsoft doesn't end up shooting itself in the foot with this change.