Microsoft has introduced a redesigned search interface for Windows 11, which is now built on the WinUI 3 framework. This architectural change aims to improve performance by reducing memory usage and increasing overall speed. The updated search box allows users to execute system commands directly from the taskbar, such as toggling Bluetooth, adjusting screen brightness, or switching to dark mode.
The new search functionality supports thousands of quick actions, with plans to integrate Phone Link features like sending text messages from connected devices. The interface has been simplified into a single list of results, removing the previous large preview pane design. Additionally, the system now features improved handling of typos and synonyms, with more detailed file information and web previews expected later this year.
The integration of Copilot allows users to view AI-generated answers directly within the search results, providing a shortcut to the full application. This update follows a July cleanup that removed advertisements and promotional content from the search experience. The experimental version of the new search became available to Windows Insiders on October 7, with a general release for all Windows 11 users planned for this fall.
