Microsoft is testing a new artificial intelligence (AI)-powered search feature in the latest build for Windows Insider members. The new feature uses semantic analysis, with which you can find the files you need even for the most “vague” queries.
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The function is integrated into search bars on the taskbar, in Explorer and in Windows settings. However, it does not require an Internet connection, as it works on the basis of NPU chips installed in Copilot Plus devices. As The Verge notes, AI search is currently limited to files in certain formats, including JPEG and PNG images, PDF and TXT documents, and XLS spreadsheets.
Image source: Microsoft
Microsoft emphasizes that the search will only work for those folders and files that the user has allowed for indexing. This is configured through the menu “Settings” – “Privacy and Security” – “Search in Windows”. You can also enable Advanced mode to index all content on your computer. In the future, the feature will also support cloud search, such as OneDrive.
At the first stage, the new feature will be available to members of the Windows Insider program on devices with Snapdragon chips and support for Copilot Plus. Later its implementation is planned on computers with Intel and AMD processors. The languages available for testing are Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese and Spanish.
In addition to AI search, the latest build of Windows 11 has a new interesting feature called Click to Do, which allows you to select actions from the context menu by pressing and holding the Windows key and clicking the left mouse button. For example, when selecting text, the Rewrite function is available and the Refine mode is available to correct grammatical errors.
Image source: Microsoft