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Tools in the sidebar - Microsoft Edge.

Иван Христов 35 Reputation points
2026-05-16T09:01:47.2466667+00:00

Hello. I am extremely irritated that you are removing the list of applications in the sidebar. Because for me it is extremely convenient - calculator, translator, unit converter, these are things I use daily and I don't understand why they have to be removed.

Microsoft Edge | Microsoft Edge development

Answer accepted by question author

Lizzy Dinh (WICLOUD CORPORATION) 620 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
2026-05-18T10:02:24.7566667+00:00

Hi @Иван Христов ,

I’m sorry to hear that these recent changes have caused inconvenience. I understand how disruptive updates can feel, especially when they affect your usual workflow. The goal of this update is to simplify the Edge experience and reduce clutter, though I recognize it may not align with everyone’s preferences. While I’m unable to influence product design decisions directly, I truly appreciate you bringing this to our attention.

Based on my review, reverting to a previous version of Edge may not provide a sustainable long-term solution. As an alternative, you may find it helpful to explore available browser extensions that support your needs. While these are developed by third parties and I’m not able to recommend a specific one, many users find them helpful in restoring certain functionalities. You may also consider pinning frequently used apps to your toolbar for easier access.

To ensure your feedback reaches the appropriate team, I recommend submitting it directly through Microsoft Edge. You can do this by following these steps:

  1. Click the three dots in the top-right corner of Edge and select Help and feedback > Send feedback. User's image
  2. A pop-up will appear where you can describe your experience and, if helpful, include additional details or a screen recording. User's image

Although this may not provide an immediate resolution, your input is valuable and plays an important role in helping the product team prioritize future improvements.

I hope this information is helpful. If you have any further questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out, I’m happy to help.

Wishing you a great day ahead!

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  1. ADE 0 Reputation points
    2026-06-06T12:22:59.2333333+00:00

    It feels like some of Edge’s best features are being removed in the name of “streamlining", but that approach doesn’t fit how most PC users work. Features such as the Translator, Calculator, and especially Drop are genuinely convenient and help set Edge apart from other Chromium browsers. Replacing useful tools with a minimalized interface and a forced rounded-corner UI reduces productivity rather than improving it. It's not even an option under the Edge Flags anymore...

    Now we're being pushed to hunt for plug‑ins that may not even exist, while the toolbar becomes increasingly crowded. A simple, user‑controlled app tower or a collapsible side panel would solve the space issue without taking away functionality. Most importantly, please do not remove Drop - it’s one of the best additions Edge has made and a key reason many of us keep using the browser.

    Less isn’t always more. Please reconsider these changes and give users the option to keep the features that make Edge useful!

    Like Lizzy already said, our only option now is to give feedback. In my experience however MS rarely listens and never goes back, sadly. Maybe it's time to jump ship and amen.

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  2. AI answer

    2026-05-16T09:01:57.1633333+00:00

    The sidebar app list (also called the App Tower) in Microsoft Edge is being retired. This is a product change: new apps can no longer be added to the sidebar list, and apps currently pinned there will be removed in a future Edge update.

    Key points about this change:

    • The retirement is gradual and will roll out over upcoming Edge updates. Users who still access the App Tower will be notified in-product before it is fully removed.
    • It is no longer possible to add new icons/apps to the App Tower.
    • Existing pinned apps (such as calculator, translator, unit converter, and others) will continue to work for a time, but will eventually be removed as the feature is phased out.
    • Copilot and the side pane are not affected by this change and will remain available and continue to be improved.
    • Some apps that were available in the sidebar can still be accessed directly on the web (for example, WhatsApp, Instagram), and some are or will be available through the Edge toolbar (for example, Drop, Copilot).

    There is no documented way in the provided information to keep the legacy sidebar app list from being retired; the change is part of Edge’s ongoing simplification and will apply as the new versions roll out.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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