Microsoft Overhauls Windows Search With Faster Performance and Action-Based Controls

Microsoft is testing a redesigned Windows Search for Windows 11 that delivers faster performance, a cleaner interface, and the ability to execute system actions directly from the search bar. The overhaul was announced in October 2026 and is currently available to Windows Insiders.

Anshul Rawat, corporate vice president of the Windows product team at Microsoft, described the update as purpose-built for speed. “This new Windows Search experience is built for speed,” Rawat said. “It’s built on WinUI 3 and is part of our broader investment in modernizing our core Windows experiences.” Microsoft says early testing has shown “substantial improvements in performance and memory usage.”

The redesigned interface features speedy animations, a large preview pane, and inline results — similar to the search experiences found on iOS and Android. Users can preview PowerPoint presentations, photos, and other files directly within search results. The updated search also improves accuracy, with Rawat noting “better matching for typos and synonyms.”

Beyond visual changes, the new search functions as a system launcher. Users can toggle Bluetooth or dark mode, minimize windows, or open apps side-by-side through search commands. For those using Microsoft’s Phone Link, the feature extends to mobile devices — allowing users to type a command like “text mom, I’m running late” to send a message directly from their phone.

Microsoft previewed the new search interface at a Windows and Surface event. Because it is currently in testing with Windows Insiders, the feature could reach general Windows 11 users in the coming months. Microsoft has also indicated that further development is planned. “Looking to next year, work is already underway to bring the new Windows Search experience to the Start menu and have it adapt naturally to different taskbar positions and Windows configurations,” Rawat said.