Windows 11 Enhances Search Features, Exclusively for Copilot+ PCs

Looks like those using Copilot+ PCs are in for a treat, as a new update is rolling out soon to address some of the shortcomings of Windows 11. The latest Insider build promises an upgraded Windows Search that harnesses AI capabilities and specialized hardware to simplify the task of locating documents, photos, and settings.

However, at the moment, this enhanced feature is exclusive to Copilot+ PCs with Snapdragon processors. Don’t worry if you’re an AMD or Intel user; Microsoft assures that support is “on the way.”

There’s a bit of disappointment here, as many top-of-the-line Copilot+ machines run on Intel or AMD, yet they’re excluded from this update for now. The improved Windows Search was unveiled by Microsoft last October, and it revolutionizes how we find content by letting users employ descriptive language within the Windows Search pane.

Thanks to the powerful NPUs in all Copilot+ PCs, which boast a minimum of 40 TOPS, these machines are equipped to efficiently handle AI-driven functionalities. The journey of Copilot+ PCs started in June, but sadly, there hasn’t been a marquee feature that makes a compelling case for the “Copilot+” badge. Our Senior Editor, Zac Bowden, didn’t hold back, labeling the launch a “total disaster.”

Part of the problem at launch was the lack of noteworthy features. But the scenario might be set to change if Microsoft continues to roll out must-have enhancements like these. An improved Windows Search could mend some discontent by lifting the tool’s effectiveness.

Diving into the specifics of Windows 11 Build 26100.3624, let’s explore what’s new. Improved Windows Search now enables effortless discovery of documents, images, and settings within Windows 11 on Copilot+ devices. It leverages semantic and traditional indexing, making it unnecessary to remember exact file names or phrases. The upgrade also includes offline support, courtesy of the robust 40+ TOPS NPU, although it’s initially limited to Snapdragon devices with other platforms catching up soon.

Searching for cloud-stored photos has become easier too. Just pop a term like “summer picnics” into the File Explorer search bar, and voila, local and cloud photos appear together. Want to give it a go? Just make sure you’re signed into OneDrive and online.

So, when can you expect to see this streamlined search land on your PC? It’s undergoing trials in the Windows Insider Release Preview Channel, specifically for Qualcomm-equipped Copilot+ devices. Microsoft originally mentioned a broader availability through the Windows Insider Program by early 2025, though timelines can change.

Typically, features tested in the Release Preview Channel go mainstream within a month or so, but stay tuned for more details. Microsoft is also planning an AI-centered event on April 4, 2025, celebrating its 50th anniversary. Perhaps this would be an ideal stage to introduce the world to these innovative AI enhancements, including the upgraded Windows Search.