In an exciting development for tech enthusiasts and professionals alike, Microsoft has announced the rollout of a new AI-powered search functionality within Windows 11. This feature, part of the latest dev channel build, is designed to revolutionize the way users interact with their files and settings by allowing more natural language queries.
Traditionally, searching for files within the Windows operating system required precise keywords or remembering the exact file names. However, with the introduction of semantic indexing in the latest update, users can now search for local files using everyday language, making the process intuitive and streamlined.
Seamless Search Experience on Copilot Plus PCs
This cutting-edge feature is exclusively available to users of the Copilot Plus PCs and leverages the built-in NPU (Neural Processing Unit) chips. These chips enable offline functionality, ensuring that users can access their files and settings without the need for an internet connection. As Wes Davis reports, “The feature applies whether you’re using search boxes in Settings, File Explorer, or the taskbar.”
Currently, the AI search capability supports various file formats, including JPEG, PNG, PDF, TXT, and XLS. It is initially limited to files in user-specified indexed locations, but Microsoft plans to extend this to cloud data, potentially integrating seamlessly with OneDrive in the future.
User Customization at Its Core
Microsoft has always prioritized user experience, and with this update, they continue to uphold this standard. Users have the flexibility to customize which locations on their devices are indexed. By navigating to Settings > Privacy & security > Searching Windows, users can adjust their preferences or opt for the ‘Enhanced’ setting to index their entire machine.
Expanding Language and Hardware Support
The AI-powered search is set to become available gradually to Windows Insiders using Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, with subsequent support for Intel and AMD Copilot Plus computers. Microsoft is also ensuring global accessibility by supporting multiple languages including Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish.
More Than Just Search: AI Writing Tools Integrated
Beyond enhancing search capabilities, Microsoft is also innovating in AI-powered writing assistance. The new build features a ‘Click to Do’ functionality, which provides context-sensitive menus of options when users hold down the Windows key and left-click. A notable addition to this toolset is the ‘Rewrite’ and ‘Refine’ options, designed to improve text grammar and style with ease.
Microsoft’s integration of AI into Windows 11 marks a significant leap towards creating a more intuitive and efficient user interface. By harnessing the power of semantic indexing and NPU technology, Windows 11 is set to offer a more personalized and user-friendly experience, reflecting Microsoft’s commitment to innovation and accessibility in computing. As these features evolve, they promise to significantly impact how we manage and interact with digital content on our devices.
