Side Copilot vs Dia Browser Chat
You do not need another AI Browser.
As AI browsers gain popularity, AI is quickly becoming a key part of how we browse the web. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at two standout solutions — Dia Browser and Side Copilot. Both bring AI into your browsing experience, but they do it in very different ways. Let’s dive into how each works and discover which one gives you the best balance of control, productivity, and flexibility for your daily workflow.
What Makes Dia Browser Unique in the AI Browsing Landscape
Dia Browser is developed by The Browser Company (the same team behind the Arc browser). Built on the Chromium engine, Dia places an AI assistant directly inside the browser interface — allowing users to “chat with your tabs,” ask questions about what’s open, summarize content, and accelerate routine tasks.
Key features of Dia Browser include:
- Built-in AI chat in the address bar, allowing queries about the page you’re on.
- Context-aware: the AI can access your open tabs and adjust responses based on what you’re browsing.
- “Skills” or shortcut-style commands that automate tasks in the browser.
- Currently in invite/beta stage, with noted limitations and feedback around privacy and maturity.
What is Side Copilot?
Side Copilot is an AI-powered browser extension developed by Side Space, designed to supercharge your existing browsers with intelligent automation and real-time assistance. Instead of switching to a new AI browser, Side Copilot enhances the one you already love — turning it into a smarter, more efficient workspace.
With Agent Mode and Chat Mode, Side Copilot adapts to different browsing needs. Chat Mode handles instant tasks like summaries, translations, and quick content insights, while Agent Mode manages complex operations such as tab organization, multi-window workflows, history analysis, and automated research.
Some of Side Copilot’s key capabilities include:
- Compatible with common browsers — no need to leave Chrome, Firefox, or Brave.
- Two intelligent modes: Chat Mode for fast responses, Agent Mode for deep automation.
- Customizable shortcuts for repeating your top workflows.
- BYOK (Bring Your Own Key) support — connect your own API keys for personalized AI experiences, full control, and privacy.
Side Copilot vs Dia Browser: AI Assistant Comparison
Here’s how Side Copilot stacks up side-by-side with Dia Browser:
| Feature | Dia Browser | Side Copilot (via Side Space) |
|---|---|---|
| Browser Type | Full browser built on Chromium with AI built-in. | Extension for your existing browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Brave) – no switch required. |
| AI Chat / Assistant Integration | Native chat in the browser’s UI; built into each tab. | Works via sidebar/Chat Mode + Agent Mode inside your current browser. |
| Context Awareness (tabs + content) | Yes – can see multiple open tabs and act across them. | Yes – tools operate on open tabs, windows, history for deep automation. |
| Tab/Window Automation | Basic AI actions (summarize, chat) with less automation around tab/window management. | Deep automation: tab grouping, window splitting/merging, memory/history tools. |
| Custom Shortcuts | Skills system for reusable prompts. | Full custom shortcuts support. |
| History & Learning Over Time | Opt-in history context (e.g., 7 days) for improved responses. | History Tool available (opt-in) for intelligent retrieval and analysis of past browsing. |
| Browser Switching Required | Yes – you must use Dia Browser. | No – you keep using your existing browser and add AI automation via Side Copilot. |
| Ideal For | Users who want a browser built from the ground up around AI chat and minimal distractions. | Power users, multitaskers, researchers who already use multiple tabs/windows and need control and automation. |
Is Dia Browser Worth the Switch?
Pros of Dia Browser
- AI chat embedded in every tab – seamless access to AI without leaving the page.
- Strong emphasis on in-browser context, simplifying tasks like summarizing or rewriting.
- Simple setup for users open to switching browsers.
Cons of Dia Browser
- Requires switching browsers (potentially large friction if you’re invested in Chrome/Edge).
- Many advanced automation features (tab/window management) are still less mature.
- Available currently on limited platforms (Mac, specific hardware) and in beta.
- May not cater to heavy multitasking power-user workflows.
Choosing Between Dia Browser and Side Copilot for Productivity Workflows
If you’re evaluating dia browser and simultaneously want to understand how Side Copilot fits, here’s what to ask yourself:
- Do you want a full browser replacement built around AI chat? → Dia Browser is a strong fit.
- Do you prefer to keep your existing browser and supercharge it with AI automation? → Side Copilot is your tool.
- Do you manage dozens of tabs, windows, projects and need fine-grained automation (tab grouping, window merging, shortcuts)? → Side Copilot offers control.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
For users looking to switch entirely to a new browser with AI embedded throughout, Dia Browser is an exciting development in the browser space—it builds on the trend of AI-native browsing.
However, if you’re already using a Chromium browser (like Chrome, Edge, Brave), or Firefox, and want to maintain your workflows while gaining powerful automation and tab management, Side Copilot gives you the flexibility and control to transform your browser into an intelligent workspace—without the cost of changing tools.
Key Takeaway
Ultimately, the keyword dia browser represents a shift towards AI-first browsing—but it doesn’t mean you must switch. Side Copilot offers you the best of both worlds: keep your browser, add advanced AI and automation.