Microsoft tests Windows 11 Search with direct PC actions

Microsoft has begun testing a redesigned Windows 11 Search that can carry out common PC actions from the taskbar, alongside finding files, apps and settings. The company says the new experience is faster and uses memory more efficiently, though those performance claims come from its early testing. The preview is being tested with Windows Insiders in the Experimental channel. Microsoft said testing would start October 7, 2026. Search can surface controls in response to requests such as switching to dark mode, muting sound or arranging open windows, letting users act without navigating through Settings. Microsoft says the redesign is built on WinUI 3 and is intended to improve how Search interprets queries, including by handling typos and synonyms more effectively. The company has described early tests as showing substantial improvements in performance and memory use. The supplied reports do not include independent benchmark results. Search is also intended to provide information and previews within its interface. Microsoft has described inline responses for searches and previews of files, while reports of the company’s announcements included web information such as weather.