Microsoft testing AI-powered search for Windows 11

Users need Copilot Plus PCs to access Microsoft’s AI-powered Windows search feature
An undated image. — Depositphotos
An undated image. — Depositphotos

Microsoft is testing an artificial intelligence (AI-powered) search feature for Windows 11, exclusive to Insider testers in the dev channel. 

The feature utilises semantic indexing, enabling users to search for local files using more conversational language. 

The AI-powered search is integrated into various search boxes throughout the operating system, including those in Settings, File Explorer, and the taskbar. 

Currently, the AI search feature is limited to Windows settings and files in formats such as JPEG, PNG, PDF, TXT, and XLS. 

However, Microsoft plans to expand the feature to include cloud data from services like OneDrive. 

How to access AI-powered Windows search feature?

To access Microsoft’s AI-powered Windows search feature, users need a Copilot Plus PC, which is equipped with NPU chips, allowing for offline search functionality. 

According to the tech giant, users can customise the search feature by selecting specific locations to index, which can be managed by navigating through Settings > Privacy & security > Searching Windows. 

Additionally, users can opt to index their entire machine by turning on the "Enhanced" option. 

The feature will be rolled out gradually to those using Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs and will be available in multiple languages, including Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish. 

In addition to the new AI search feature, Microsoft’s latest build includes AI-powered writing tools, such as the "Refine" option, which can correct grammar and refine text.