Microsoft unveiled a major update to its AI assistant this week, introducing Copilot Mode in the Edge browser — a move that positions the browser as a central hub for AI-powered web interactions. More than just a tool, the new feature aims to transform Edge into what Mustafa Suleyman, CEO of Microsoft AI, described as an “AI browser” — a dynamic, intelligent companion that actively assists users while they browse. With user permission, Copilot Mode can view and analyze open tabs, summarize content, compare information across pages, and even perform tasks like booking hotels or filling out forms. This level of integration marks a significant evolution from traditional browser assistants, turning the tool into a proactive partner in online workflows. The announcement comes just two days after OpenAI revealed its own AI browser, Atlas, which debuted with a nearly identical concept. While Microsoft’s Copilot Mode has been in development for months and was scheduled for release, the timing of both launches in such close succession highlights the growing urgency in the AI race. Visually, the two products are strikingly similar. Both feature a chat interface embedded in the new tab view, with a clean, minimalist design. Differences are subtle: Microsoft’s version uses a darker background and displays text instead of a logo, while its interface follows Windows design conventions for window controls, unlike Atlas, which mirrors macOS aesthetics. The main functional distinction lies in how the AI is presented — Copilot uses a dedicated tab rather than a split-screen layout — but the core experience remains nearly identical. This convergence isn’t surprising. The demand for seamless, intelligent browsing experiences has driven both companies toward similar solutions. Given that users prefer intuitive, uncluttered interfaces, there are limited ways to integrate a chatbot into the browsing experience without compromising usability. Ultimately, the real differentiator between the two will likely come down to the underlying AI models and how well each system understands context, performs tasks, and learns from user behavior. While the visual similarity is hard to ignore, the competition isn’t just about design — it’s about performance, reliability, and integration across ecosystems. With Microsoft and OpenAI now both pushing forward with AI-native browsers, the stakes have never been higher. The race isn’t just about who builds the best tool — it’s about who can best redefine how people interact with the web.