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Microsoft has unveiled a groundbreaking AI-enhanced Windows Search feature, tailored exclusively for Copilot Plus PCs. This innovation aims to revolutionize localized file searches by enabling users to effortlessly find files, images, and system settings. Currently in preview, the feature is accessible to select Windows Insiders using Qualcomm Snapdragon-powered Copilot Plus PCs, showcasing the next level of AI integration in everyday computing.
The new Windows Search uses semantic indexing, a way of interpreting the meaning between words and phrases. This makes it possible for users to search through keywords and not necessarily use specific file names since the files are arranged structurally. For instance, typing such search terms as “sunset photo” or ‘trip expense report’ will produce the files from within the system.
It accepts natural language input which enables one to search the system settings by describing them in a natural language. For now, the settings search is only available in the settings search bar, but Microsoft intends to bring the settings search, apart from the settings icon search to the search box in the taskbar soon.
The search is powered by artificial intelligence, is integrated into the Neural Processing Unit found on Copilot Plus PCs. At first, they are limited to the user’s files, but they will extend to cloud storage applications such as OneDrive in the future. It also intends to apply it on Intel and AMD-based Copilot Plus PCs in the future according to the firm.
The new Windows Search feature supports multiple languages, including Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish. It is compatible with various file formats:
Documents: .txt, .pdf, .docx, .doc, .rtf, .pptx, .ppt, .xls, .xlsx
Images: .jpg/.jpeg, .png, .gif, .bmp, .ico
Alongside the enhanced search feature, Microsoft has introduced other updates for Copilot Plus PCs. The new "Refine" tool for the Click to Do feature helps users improve text extracted from snapshots saved with the Windows Recall function. Additional updates include a new keyboard shortcut for Magnifier, performance optimizations, and bug fixes.
Microsoft’s continued focus on AI innovation is enhancing productivity and accessibility, setting a new standard for file search and system navigation on Windows.
