Microsoft is revolutionizing the search experience on Windows with significant upgrades to its Copilot and Windows Search features. These enhancements are set to make finding files, settings, and information on your PC easier and more intuitive than ever before.
AI-Powered Search Redefined
The latest update introduces a robust AI-powered search feature that leverages semantic indexing alongside traditional indexing. This means you no longer need to type in the exact names of files, settings, or other items to find them. Instead, you can use natural language to search for what you need.
For example, typing “Change my theme” will directly take you to the theme settings, while searching for “Eco-friendly clothing” can bring up relevant images and documents related to your query. This feature is currently available to Windows Insiders using Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, thanks to the powerful Neural Processing Units (NPUs) that provide 40 Trillions of Operations Per Second (TOPS)[1].
Compatibility and Rollout
While the initial rollout is limited to Snapdragon-powered devices, Microsoft has confirmed that support for AMD and Intel-powered Copilot+ PCs will be added soon. This ensures that a broader range of users will benefit from these advanced search capabilities.
Enhanced File Search
The new search feature extends its capabilities to read and understand the contents of various file types, including .docx, .xlsx, .pptx, .txt, .pdf, and more. This allows you to ask file-related questions and receive precise answers. For instance, you can ask Copilot to “Open the article I was working on yesterday” or “Summarize the PDF file I downloaded earlier today”[2].
Privacy and Control
Users have full control over what files the AI can access. You can adjust permissions in the Settings under “Privacy & security” > “Searching Windows” to decide which locations on your PC are indexed. This ensures that your data remains secure and private[1].
Copilot Search: Intelligent and Curated Information
Microsoft is also enhancing the Copilot Search feature to provide more accurate and reliable information. Copilot Search now serves up “intelligently curated information” to avoid potentially misleading content. This feature is live globally and can be tested immediately.
When you use Copilot Search, it lays out information neatly with citations and source boxes, allowing you to verify the accuracy of the answers. This is particularly useful for researching topics where reliable sources are crucial[2].
Deep Research and Personalization
In addition to the search upgrades, Copilot is introducing several other AI-enhanced features. One notable addition is Deep Research, which allows Copilot to scour the web for relevant articles and resources on a given topic. This feature generates a carefully curated and formatted report, similar to what a human researcher might produce.
Copilot also now has improved personalization capabilities, allowing it to remember more about you and tailor its responses accordingly. This feature includes personalized shopping recommendations and the ability to track prices and alert you to deals[2].
Practical Applications and User Experience
These upgrades significantly enhance the user experience on Windows. Here are a few practical ways you might benefit:
- Efficient File Management: With the ability to search for files using natural language, you’ll spend less time navigating through folders and more time on your actual work.
- Enhanced Productivity: Features like Copilot Vision, which allows the AI to analyze your screen and provide insights, can guide you through complex tasks and applications, making you more productive.
- Personalized Assistance: Copilot’s improved memory and personalization features ensure that the AI assistant provides more relevant and useful responses, adapting to your preferences over time.
Future Integrations
Microsoft plans to extend these AI-based search features to OneDrive and other cloud storage providers. This will enable seamless searching across both local and cloud-stored files, further simplifying how you manage and retrieve your data[1].
As these features continue to roll out to a broader audience, it’s clear that Microsoft is committed to enhancing the Windows experience with cutting-edge AI technology. Whether you’re a power user or someone looking to streamline your workflow, these upgrades make Copilot and Windows Search indispensable tools on your Windows PC.