Microsoft has just released an update for its Edge browser version 119 to the Stable Channel, introducing several new features such as Split Screen and improvements to sidebar apps. Among these updates, Microsoft also made some changes to the Sidebar setting, which caused confusion among users as Microsoft has relocated the toggle for turning the sidebar on or off. Therefore, users wrongly believe that disabling the sidebar is no longer possible.
Image credit: Microsoft.com
Before the Edge version 119, users could control the sidebar’s visibility with the “Always Show Sidebar” option found on the Sidebar settings page. With the latest update, the toggle has been moved to the Copilot settings section. Additionally, activation or deactivation of the sidebar now requires you to enable the Show Copilot option. It’s worth saying that keeping the sidebar while switching off the Copilot icon removes the “Auto-hide Sidebar” option, preventing users from turning off the sidebar in settings. The toggle description clarifies this point:
The change in the sidebar settings may confuse some users, particularly those who prefer not to use Copilot. This is because the sidebar is now linked to Copilot in what seems like Microsoft’s attempt to increase engagement with its AI assistant.
Regardless of the update, users can now adjust the sidebar settings in Edge version 119 by navigating to Settings | Sidebar | Copilot | Always Show Sidebar.