×
Microsoft is enhancing Windows Search for Copilot+ PCs
Written by
Published on
Join our daily newsletter for breaking news, product launches and deals, research breakdowns, and other industry-leading AI coverage
Join Now

Microsoft has announced significant improvements to Windows Search, introducing semantic indexing capabilities that will make file discovery more intuitive on Windows 11 systems, initially rolling out to Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs.

Key features and functionality: The enhanced Windows Search implements semantic indexing alongside traditional indexing methods to enable more natural search queries across files, photos, and settings.

  • Users can search using natural language phrases like “Change my theme” instead of exact setting names
  • The feature works across the taskbar search box, File Explorer, and Settings menu
  • Supported file formats include common document types (.txt, .pdf, .docx) and image formats (.jpg, .png, .gif)

Technical requirements: The new search capabilities are currently limited to specific hardware configurations and insider program participants.

  • Initially available only on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs with 40 TOPS NPUs
  • Support for AMD and Intel-powered Copilot+ PCs is planned for future releases
  • The feature requires Windows Insider membership in the Dev Channel

Implementation details: Microsoft has outlined specific parameters for how the improved search functionality will operate.

  • Searches currently only work for locally stored files in indexed locations
  • Users can customize indexed locations through Settings > Privacy & security > Searching Windows
  • The feature functions offline, leveraging the device’s neural processing unit
  • Future updates will expand functionality to OneDrive and other cloud storage providers

Strategic context: The search improvements align with Microsoft’s broader AI integration strategy and Windows platform evolution.

  • The update comes as Windows 10 approaches end-of-support in October 2024
  • Current statistics show 62% of devices still run Windows 10, while 34% use Windows 11
  • Microsoft is simultaneously introducing other Copilot enhancements to Microsoft 365

Looking ahead: While the enhanced search capabilities represent a significant advancement in Windows functionality, the limited initial rollout to specific hardware configurations may slow adoption rates. The success of this feature could influence user migration from Windows 10 to Windows 11, particularly as the end-of-support deadline approaches.

Microsoft is bringing big upgrades to Windows Search for Copilot+ PCs — here's what we know

Recent News

Royally pained: King Charles’ charity warns AI could widen global digital divide

Despite AI advancements championed by King Charles III's charity, millions worldwide lack basic digital access, threatening to deepen global inequality unless governments and businesses implement inclusive technology policies.

AI chatbots are transforming mental health care amid global therapist shortage

AI chatbots provide 24/7, stigma-free mental health support amid a global shortage of professionals, though they remain better suited for mild to moderate issues than severe conditions.

Crunchy AI: Softmax’s “organic alignment” approach draws from nature to reimagine AI-human collaboration

Inspired by ant colonies and natural systems, Softmax aims to develop AI that collaborates with humans through coordination principles rather than hierarchical control.