Microsoft Edge adds sidebar in latest update, providing quick access to Outlook, Office, and more

News
By
published

Bing, Outlook, Office, and other Microsoft products can now be brought up in Edge without having to swap tabs or open a new window.

Microsoft Edge on Start menu
(Image credit: Future)

What you need to know

  • Microsoft recently released an update to Edge that brings the browser to version 104.0.1293.63.
  • Edge now includes a sidebar, which provides quick access to Bing search, Outlook, Office, and other Microsoft services without requiring a user to open a new tab or window.
  • The update is rolling out progressively, so your device may not see it yet.

Microsoft continues to expand the functionality of Edge. The latest update to the browser adds a sidebar that provides quick access to a variety of Microsoft services, including Office, Bing, and Outlook. The idea is to be able to use these products without having to open up a new tab or window.

The update is rolling out gradually, so you may not see it on your system yet. It initially shipped on August 19, 2022.

Here's the changelog for Edge version 104.0.1293.63, as outlined by Microsoft:

Microsoft Edge 104.0.1293.63 changelog

  • Microsoft Edge sidebar. The Microsoft Edge sidebar lets users access Microsoft Edge features side-by-side with their browsing window. Available features include Discover, Bing search, Outlook, Office, Games, and Tools such as a unit converter and Internet speed test. Administrators can control the availability of the Microsoft Edge sidebar by using the HubsSidebarEnabled policy. Note: This is a controlled feature rollout. If you don't see this feature, check back as we continue our rollout.
  • Search in the Microsoft Edge sidebar. Easily access an updated sidebar search via Microsoft Edge sidebar, including easy access to Microsoft Search in Bing for organizations. Note: This is a controlled feature rollout. If you don't see this feature, check back as we continue our rollout.
  • Gaming for the Microsoft Edge sidebar. Play popular casual games for free. Administrators can control the availability of the Games menu in the Microsoft Edge sidebar by using the AllowGamesMenu policy. Note: This is a controlled feature rollout. If you don't see this feature, check back as we continue our rollout.
  • Discover in the Microsoft Edge sidebar. Discover content relevant to the page you’re browsing including summaries, source information, and more. Note: This is a controlled feature rollout. If you don't see this feature, check back as we continue our rollout.
  • Get your favorite tools in the Microsoft Edge sidebar. Easily access commonly used tools while you browse the web, including Calculator, Internet speed test, and Unit converter. Note: This is a controlled feature rollout. If you don't see this feature, check back as we continue our rollout.
  • Outlook in the Microsoft Edge sidebar. Quickly and easily access Outlook Mail and Calendar. Administrators can control the Outlook menu in the Microsoft Edge sidebar by using the OutlookHubMenuEnabled policy. Note: This is a controlled feature rollout. If you don't see this feature, check back as we continue our rollout.
  • Office in the Microsoft Edge sidebar. Quickly and easily access Microsoft Office documents and apps. Administrators can control the Microsoft Office menu in the Microsoft Edge sidebar by using the MicrosoftOfficeMenuEnabled policy. Note: This is a controlled feature rollout. If you don't see this feature, check back as we continue our rollout.
Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge is the default browser on Windows 11 and Windows 10. Following a recent update, it has a sidebar that lets you access Office, Outlook, and other Microsoft services without opening a separate window or tab.

View Deal
CATEGORIES
Sean Endicott
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_.