Microsoft may bring quick actions to the sidebar of its Edge browser

Microsoft Edge Update Dev New2
Microsoft Edge Update Dev New2 (Image credit: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • Microsoft is testing quick actions within the sidebar of Microsoft Edge.
  • The feature is currently available in the latest preview build of Edge Canary.
  • The sidebar includes buttons for discover, Microsoft Rewards, an internet speed test, games, and a shortcut for Microsoft 365 quick actions.

Microsoft Edge Canary has a feature in testing that allows you to quickly perform actions from the sidebar. There are five buttons available within the sidebar: Discover, Microsoft Rewards, Internet Speed Test, and Microsoft 365 quick actions. Twitter user Benjamin Mathis first spotted the feature and shared screenshots of it in action.

The sidebar that includes quick actions is, of course, optional. Many prefer an uncluttered interface when browsing the web, so the sidebar would occupy too much screen space for them. For anyone that prefers to have access to quick actions at any time, the sidebar can be toggled on.

Mathis also shared screenshots of the interfaces of each quick action button.

The option rolled out to Edge Canary last week, but some Insiders may not see the feature. Microsoft tests features like this to segments of Insiders, so even those with the latest Canary build may not be able to try out the sidebar.

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Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.