Microsoft Opens Testing for AI-Powered Search in Windows

Windows 11 search
Credit: Microsoft

Windows 11 search
Credit: Microsoft

Microsoft is improving its AI integration by introducing a semantic, AI-powered search experience for Windows 11.

The new feature, released via the Dev Channel in Windows Insider Preview Build 26120.2992, makes it easier for users to find files, settings, and photographs on their devices.

This improvement is available on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs and will gradually extend to devices with Intel or AMD Copilot Plus processors.

Microsoft Surface
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Credit: Microsoft

This update's main highlight is the addition of a semantic index alongside the traditional index. Unlike traditional search technologies, which require exact file names or keywords, semantic search allows users to locate content using natural, descriptive language.

For example, users can search for photographs by typing phrases like "bridge at sunset" or retrieve documents describing their content, such as "Europe trip budget." This update applies to all search interfaces in File Explorer, the Windows Taskbar, and Settings.

One notable feature is its offline functionality, enabled by high-performance NPUs in Copilot+ PCs. These NPUs, capable of over 40 TOPS (trillions of operations per second), ensure that advanced AI-powered search runs smoothly even without an internet connection.

However, users must index their preferred file locations to maximize functionality or opt for the "Enhanced" indexing option. Currently, the feature supports popular file formats such as JPEG, PNG, PDF, TXT, and XLS.

Initially limited to local files and settings, Microsoft plans to expand the feature to include cloud-stored data, such as material in OneDrive. This feature will support multiple languages, including English, Chinese, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish, demonstrating its global reach.

Microsoft family app
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Credit: Microsoft

Apart from search, the build introduces AI-powered writing tools, such as the new "Refine" option in the Click to Do contextual menu. This tool, accessible by holding the Windows key and left-clicking, allows users to correct grammar and improve text clarity.

Microsoft's AI-powered search offers a huge step forward in intuitive device interactions.

It provides consumers with a more accessible and efficient digital content management method.