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You are currently viewing Web Preview in Microsoft Edge – Understanding the New Feature


Web Preview, Microsoft Edge’s newest feature, underscores the browser’s longstanding commitment to user experience enhancement. Since its inception, Microsoft’s flagship web browser has consistently prioritized innovation and functionality. Now, in its latest move, the browser is set to break new ground in link sharing. This progression brings forth a pioneering capability designed to transform how users interact with links, showcasing what the linked content encapsulates even before a click.

Designed with the modern internet user in mind, “Web Preview” aims to revolutionize the standard procedure of copying and pasting links. Instead of merely sharing a URL, this feature provides users with a concise snapshot of the linked content, ensuring they get a clearer idea of what the webpage holds even before they click. The introduction of such a feature signifies Microsoft Edge’s understanding of users’ needs and its dedication to ensuring a seamless and informative browsing experience.


How the Web Preview Feature Works

The scoop first came to light through a post on Reddit by a user named Leopeva64-2. With this novel “Web Preview” feature in place, the Edge browser intends to provide users with link previews. Instead of copying just the URL, this feature will let users copy the link, incorporating additional details like the headline and an accompanying thumbnail.

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Credits: neowin


To access and use this feature:

  1. Navigate to the Settings in Microsoft Edge.
  2. Choose the “Share, copy, and paste” panel.
  3. You’ll spot the URL copy & paste format default section, with three distinct sub-options: Web Preview, Link, and Plain Text.
  4. Simply click on ‘Web Preview’ when you wish to copy and paste using this feature.

For those eager to give it a whirl, just right-click on your desired webpage and select ‘Copy preview link.’ When pasted on your chosen platform, the link will unveil the post’s title and its primary image.


Limitations and Compatibility Concerns

While the introduction of this feature marks a significant advancement, it’s imperative to understand that it doesn’t come without its constraints. A Reddit user has emphasized potential compatibility issues with this tool, particularly highlighting that several major platforms seem to be left out of its purview. Platforms like X (which was formerly known as Twitter), Reddit, and Disqus have been identified as non-supporters of the “Web Preview” capability.

Such an observation leads to the assumption that these platforms have either chosen not to integrate this particular feature into their systems or have opted to not endorse it for specific reasons. This limitation indicates that users might not experience the full benefit of “Web Preview” across all platforms and should be aware of where its functionality can be maximized.


Privacy Implications

But there’s another side to this innovation. The feature comes with potential privacy concerns. As delineated in the Edge browser’s Settings, the “Web preview” feature could dispatch data to the linked URL destination and might need to access Microsoft services. Essentially, using this feature implies sending more user data to Microsoft’s servers.


Current Status of the Feature

The “Web Preview” feature in Microsoft Edge has piqued the interest of many in the tech community. Its anticipated benefits and enhancements have made it a topic of much discussion. However, it’s intriguing to note that despite the buzz it has generated, this feature remains inaccessible to the vast majority of users. The Reddit user, Leopeva64-2, has shed some light on the matter, pointing out that Microsoft has been testing the “Web Preview” tool internally.

The duration of this internal testing remains a mystery, leading to a plethora of speculations and theories. Many wonder why such a promising feature hasn’t seen a more widespread release. There’s chatter in the tech circles suggesting that there might be unresolved bugs or other technical glitches preventing its public launch. Adding to the intrigue is the fact that this feature is absent even in the Canary version of Edge, which is typically known for showcasing advanced and experimental functionalities.

Microsoft’s silence on the matter further fuels the curiosity. The tech giant, known for its periodic updates and announcements, has chosen to maintain a conspicuous silence regarding the “Web Preview” feature. They have refrained from giving any official statements or clarifications, even in the face of revelations and discussions stemming from the Reddit post. This lack of communication leaves many questions unanswered and has the tech world eagerly awaiting further developments.


Conclusion

With the tech world abuzz about this potential new feature, many are eager to see how it will reshape the user experience on Microsoft Edge. Until a formal announcement comes through, all information should be approached with caution. Nonetheless, Microsoft Edge users should keep their eyes peeled for updates on this intriguing development.

Till then for more such important interesting and valuable updates don’t forget to check our Tech Updates section for such interesting tech insights!

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Sayak Mukherjee

Hello, fellow tech enthusiasts. I'm Sayak, welcoming you to TheTechDelta. With a passion for tech innovations, I aim to share insights and empower you with impactful knowledge and tools. Whether you're a newbie or an expert, join us as we unravel the wonders of the tech universe together.

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