Microsoft Tests Offline AI Windows Search for Copilot Plus PCs

Microsoft has begun testing an AI-powered search feature for Windows 11 in its latest developer channel build, offering a glimpse into how artificial intelligence could enhance everyday file management and settings navigation.

What’s New?

The new feature leverages semantic indexing, allowing users to search for local files using casual, conversational language. Available exclusively on Copilot Plus PCs equipped with neural processing unit (NPU) chips, the feature brings AI-driven search capabilities to:

• Settings

• File Explorer

• Taskbar Search Boxes

Unlike many AI features, this search works entirely offline, thanks to the localized processing power of NPU-equipped Copilot Plus devices. Currently, the system supports a range of file formats, including JPEG, PNG, PDF, TXT, and XLS.

Enhanced Search Customization

Users can tailor the feature to index specific file locations through the Settings > Privacy & Security > Searching Windows menu. For broader coverage, enabling the “Enhanced” mode will index the entire machine. Microsoft has also hinted at plans to expand the search capability to include cloud-stored data, such as files in OneDrive, in future updates.

Gradual Rollout and Multilingual Support

The feature is rolling out gradually to Windows Insiders on Snapdragon-powered Copilot Plus PCs, with Intel and AMD Copilot Plus support to follow. Initially, the AI search will support six languages: Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish.

Additional AI Features: Grammar Refinement

The latest build also introduces AI-powered writing tools via the “Click to Do” feature. When users press the Windows key and left-click on their screen, they can access context-sensitive menus for various actions. One new addition, “Refine,” allows users to correct grammar within blocks of text using AI.

What This Means

Microsoft’s latest updates showcase its continued investment in integrating AI into everyday computing tasks, making file management and text refinement more intuitive and efficient. By enabling offline AI processing, the company highlights its commitment to user privacy while leveraging the power of advanced hardware like NPUs.

As these features expand to cloud data and broader device support, they could redefine how users interact with their systems, blending the convenience of AI with powerful customization tools.

Editor’s Note: This article was created by Alicia Shapiro, CMO of AiNews.com, with writing, image, and idea-generation support from ChatGPT, an AI assistant. However, the final perspective and editorial choices are solely Alicia Shapiro’s. Special thanks to ChatGPT for assistance with research and editorial support in crafting this article.