Microsoft Unveils AI-Powered Windows Search for Copilot+ PCs: A Game-Changer for Productivity
In a bold move to redefine user experience,Microsoft is testing an advanced AI-based search feature for Windows 11,exclusively available on Copilot+ PCs. this innovative feature, currently in the dev channel for Windows Insider testers, leverages semantic indexing technology to allow users to search for local files using natural language. According to a report by The Verge, this development marks a significant leap in how users interact with their devices, making file retrieval faster and more intuitive.
How It Works
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The AI-powered search integrates seamlessly into the Settings menu, File Explorer, and taskbar, enabling users to locate files without needing an internet connection. This is made possible by the NPU chip embedded in Copilot+ PCs, which processes searches locally.Currently, the feature supports JPEG, PNG, PDF, TXT, and XLS file formats, and also Windows settings.
Users can customize the search scope by adjusting indexed locations via Settings > Privacy & security > Searching Windows.For those seeking thorough indexing, the “Enhanced” option allows the system to scan the entire computer. Microsoft has also hinted at future updates to include cloud-based files stored on OneDrive, further expanding its utility.
Rollout and Compatibility
The rollout is being conducted in phases, starting with Snapdragon-based Copilot+ PCs. Microsoft has confirmed that support for devices powered by Intel and AMD processors is on the horizon. Additionally, the feature currently supports six languages: Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish.
beyond Search: Introducing Click to Do
Alongside the AI search, Microsoft has introduced Click to Do, a feature that enhances productivity by allowing users to access context menus by pressing the Windows key while left-clicking. Another notable addition is the “Refine” option in the Rewrite menu, which automatically corrects grammar, streamlining content creation.
Key Features at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|—————————|—————————————————————————–|
| AI-Powered Search | Uses semantic indexing for natural language searches; works offline. |
| Supported Formats | JPEG, PNG, PDF, TXT, XLS, and Windows settings. |
| Indexing Options | Customizable via Settings > Privacy & security > Searching Windows. |
| Languages Supported | Chinese, English, French, german, Japanese, Spanish. |
| Future Updates | Cloud data support (e.g., OneDrive); Intel and AMD processor compatibility. |
| Additional Features | Click to Do, Refine option for grammar correction. |
Why It Matters
This update underscores Microsoft’s commitment to integrating AI into everyday computing, offering users a more intuitive and efficient way to manage their files. By combining local processing power with natural language capabilities, the company is setting a new standard for Windows 11 devices.
As the tech giant continues to refine these features, the future of Windows search looks promising, with potential applications extending beyond personal computing to enterprise environments. For now, Windows Insider testers on Copilot+ PCs can experience this cutting-edge technology firsthand, paving the way for a smarter, more connected digital ecosystem.
Stay tuned for updates as microsoft expands this feature to more devices and languages, bringing the power of AI-driven search to a broader audience.
Headline: Revolutionizing Desktop Search: A Chat with Dr. Emma Hartley, AI Specialist, on Microsoft’s New AI-Powered Windows Search
Introduction:
in an exciting development that promises to transform the way we interact with our computers, Microsoft has introduced an AI-based search feature for Windows 11, exclusive to Copilot+ PCs. This innovative tool, currently in testing by Windows insiders, uses semantic indexing technology to enable natural language searches for local files, making file retrieval faster and more intuitive. We had the prospect to sit down with Dr. Emma Hartley, a renowned AI specialist, to discuss this groundbreaking feature and its implications.
how Does the AI-Powered search Work?
Word tkdder: How woudl you explain to our readers how this new AI-powered search feature works, Emma?
Dr. Emma Hartley (DEH): Great question! At its core, this feature integrates artificially smart search capabilities into the windows experience. Its seamlessly integrated into the Settings menu, File Explorer, and taskbar, allowing users to find files quickly and easily using natural language queries, even when offline. This is thanks to a dedicated NPU (Neural Processing Unit) chip embedded in Copilot+ PCs, which handles search processing locally on the device.
Current File Format Support and Customization
Word tkdder: What file formats are supported by this new search feature at the moment, and how can users customize their search scope?
DEH: Initially, the feature supports popular formats like JPEG, PNG, PDF, TXT, and XLS, as well as Windows settings. Users can customize the search scope by adjusting indexed locations via the Settings app, under Privacy & security > Searching Windows. For comprehensive searching, there’s an ‘Enhanced’ option that allows the system to scan the entire computer. Microsoft has also hinted at future updates to include cloud-based file support, expanding the feature’s utility even further.
Rollout and Compatibility
word tkdder: Could you tell us more about the rollout plan and compatibility with other devices and languages?
DEH: Microsoft is rolling out this feature in phases, starting with Snapdragon-based Copilot+ PCs. Support for intel and AMD-powered devices is planned for the future. Currently, the feature supports six languages, including Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish.
Beyond Search: Click to Do and Refine Option
Word tkdder: Apart from AI-powered search, Microsoft has introduced other productivity-boosting features. Can you share your thoughts on thes additions?
DEH: Absolutely! Alongside the AI search, Microsoft has introduced ‘Click to Do,’ a feature that enhances productivity by allowing users to access context menus with a simple Windows key press while left-clicking. Another notable addition is the ‘Refine’ option in the Rewrite menu,which automatically corrects grammer,streamlining content creation. These features, combined with the AI-powered search, create a more intuitive and efficient Windows experience.
Why It Matters
* Word tkdder: In your opinion,what does this update signify for Microsoft and users,and what lies ahead for Windows search?
DEH: This update underscores Microsoft’s commitment to integrating AI into everyday computing,offering users a more intuitive and efficient way to manage their files. by combining local processing power with natural language capabilities,Microsoft is Setting a new standard for windows 11 devices. As they continue to refine these features, the future of Windows search looks promising, with potential applications extending beyond personal computing to enterprise environments. For now, Windows Insiders on Copilot+ PCs can experience this cutting-edge technology firsthand, paving the way for a smarter, more connected digital ecosystem. Stay tuned for updates as Microsoft expands this feature to more devices and languages, bringing the power of AI-driven search to a broader audience.