At today’s Windows event, Microsoft confirmed there’s a new Windows Search coming to all PCs later this year, and it’s built from scratch. It offers faster results, and thousands of quick actions.” According to Microsoft, You’ll be able to change settings, take screenshots, arrange windows and even send a text message directly from the taskbar.

“At its core, the new Windows Search experience is quicker, more efficient, so you can find your apps, settings, and files faster,” Davuluri said.

As you can see in the screenshot above, the new Search uses a vertical panel with rounded corners. The search box sits at the bottom of the flyout, while results are stacked above it in a single list.

In Microsoft’s demo, searching for “background image” brought up Background image settings first, followed by a slideshow setting, a Control Panel troubleshooter and local image files.

Each result has a smaller label underneath, such as “System settings,” “Control panel” or “Photos,” which helps you understand what you’re about to open. The image files also show when they were modified, and there’s an Open button in the lower-right corner for the selected result.

And yes, Bing is still there. The same screenshot includes “Bing search suggestion · Edge” and “Search with Bing · Edge” entries beneath the local results.

Windows 11 Search can change settings directly from the results

Microsoft showed a search for “increase mic vol,” which brought up an Input volume slider at the top of the results. You could adjust the microphone level right there, with links to Sound settings and other related options listed underneath.

“You can turn up your mic volume and then use the inline slider to get to the exact level you want,” Davuluri explained.

I think this is one of the more useful changes shown at the event. If somebody says they can barely hear you during a call, you can find the microphone control and adjust it in the same panel, without working your way through Settings.

Microsoft says you’ll also be able to switch to dark mode or turn on Do Not Disturb directly from Search. That means you can type what you want to change without needing to remember where its toggle lives.

Microsoft says Search will let you take a screenshot and arrange your open windows, all from the taskbar.

You can even send a text message from Windows Search

Another demo showed a text message reading “running 5 mins late” inside the Search panel, with Word and PowerPoint open behind it.

Davuluri described messaging as his personal favourite, explaining that you could text a friend or colleague to let them know you’re running late without pulling your phone out of your pocket.

This is a developing story…

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