The new Windows 11 search experience is about more than just finding files: thousands of actions are now at your fingertips right from the taskbar.
This article has been updated with additional information from the Microsoft blog. We will continue to add more details as they become available.
Microsoft has just unveiled the new Windows Search experience during its Windows and Surface Event. The new search is more than just a search function; he is a system composer. This means it can be used to control your PC. Pavan Davuluri, Microsoft’s head of Windows, discussed the new search experience on stage.
Starting this fall, on Windows 11 PCs, users can perform thousands of quick actions directly from the taskbar search. For example, you can enable dark mode or switch your PC to Do Not Disturb. You can also adjust your microphone slider through the new search experience.
You can even use the new search experience to send a text message via Phone Link.
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Microsoft detailed the new research in a blog post. He also shared some examples of actions you can take:
- Enable or disable something. Try phrases like “go to dark mode,” “turn on the night light,” or “turn on Bluetooth.”
- Make a quick adjustment. Try “dimming my screen” or “mute”.
- Manage your workspace. Try “minimize all my windows” or “arrange windows on screen”.
Copilot can also be invoked through the new search, displaying answers directly in the user interface. You won’t need to access a separate app to interact with Copilot. If you want to access the full Copilot app, there is a shortcut to do so.
As you’d expect, the new search experience can also be used to find things on Windows 11. “At its core, the new Windows search experience is faster and more efficient, so you can find your files, settings, and apps faster,” Davuluri said.
The new Windows Search experience is faster and more resource efficient because it’s based on WinUI 3
Windows Search will better understand what you are looking for. For example, it will still be able to search for items even if your input has a typo.
Microsoft will begin testing the new search experience with Windows Insiders today, October 7, 2026. It will first appear through the Experimental channel.
This article was written during the Windows and Surface event live stream. Microsoft is expected to share more details about the new search experience and other items covered at the event. We will update this article with more information as it becomes available.
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