On Friday, Microsoft unveiled a new Insider Preview build for Windows 11, focusing on enhancements to the Windows Search functionality. The update boosts search capabilities on devices powered by Snapdragon’s Copilot+ technology by introducing semantic indexing. This advancement enables users to perform natural language searches for local files, allowing for conversational queries when seeking out specific documents, images, or settings.
Windows 11 Introduces Semantic Search Capabilities
In a blog announcement, Microsoft explained that this feature will initially be available on PCs utilizing the Snapdragon X series chipsets. It is part of Windows 11 Insider Preview build 26120.2992 (KB5050083), which is currently accessible through the Dev Channel. A broader rollout to all users is expected to take place in the coming weeks or months.
Historically, users have needed to input specific keywords to locate files on Windows devices. However, with this updated Windows Search, devices equipped with the new feature will also offer semantic indexing. This allows users to simply describe the file they wish to find, and the Copilot-enabled device will interpret the context to assist in locating it.
Enhancements to Windows 11’s Search feature are on the horizon
Photo Credit: Microsoft
Users can take advantage of this new functionality across File Explorer, the search box located on the taskbar, or within the Settings application. For example, a user could enter “bridge at sunset” to retrieve images featuring both elements. Similarly, the query “change my theme” in Settings would prompt Copilot to provide pertinent settings options. Importantly, this capability operates locally, meaning internet connectivity is not required for its functioning.
Currently, some limitations exist due to the preview status of the feature. It only accommodates files saved locally in designated indexed locations on the device. Users can modify these indexed settings by navigating to Settings > Privacy & Security > Searching Windows. Enabling the Enhanced option will facilitate the automatic indexing of the entire system. Future updates are anticipated to extend search capabilities to include documents and images stored in cloud services.
Likewise, searches pertaining to Settings will be confined to the Settings app for now. Future iterations will introduce functionality that allows users to locate settings directly from the taskbar search interface.
Furthermore, the feature currently supports six languages: Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish. It can handle a variety of document formats, including .txt, .pdf, .docx, .doc, .rtf, .pptx, .ppt, .xls, and .xlsx. Image formats supported include .jpg/.jpeg, .png, .gif, .bmp, and .ico.
