Windows 11 launches new Windows Search, type commands via Taskbar immediately
14 Oct 2026
Microsoft launches a new Windows Search on Windows 11 that enhances the ability for users to command their computer directly through the search box on the Taskbar, whether it's to switch to dark mode, dim the screen, turn on Bluetooth, or minimize all windows without having to navigate through multiple menus as before.
Microsoft has started gradually rolling out to Windows Insider members in the Experimental channel since October 7, 2026, with the first version supporting only English commands.
What can the new Windows Search do?
This new feature comes with Inline Actions that allow users to type what they want and select a command to perform directly from the search page.
Examples of supported commands include:
Desired action English command
- Switch to dark mode switch to dark mode
- Turn on Night Light turn on night light
- Turn on Bluetooth turn on Bluetooth
- Dim my screen dim my screen
- Mute mute
- Minimize all my windows minimize all my windows
- Arrange windows on screen arrange windows on screen
For example, if you want to dim the screen, you can type the command in the Search box on the Taskbar and select the command that the system displays, reducing the steps to enter Settings manually.
New look, faster search
Microsoft has improved Windows Search using WinUI 3 technology and organized search results into a single list for a cleaner screen and more convenient search.
Additionally, it has improved the ability to search for misspelled words or those with similar meanings.
Microsoft states that preliminary tests show improvements in performance and memory usage, but detailed comparative figures have not yet been disclosed.
Preparing to integrate Phone Link and Copilot
Microsoft plans to enhance Windows Search to work with phones through Phone Link, such as sending messages from the search page, with related features to be gradually made available later.
As for Copilot, it is another capability under development, with Windows Central reporting on how to invoke Copilot and display answers within the search page. However, further details on the schedule for activation are still pending.
New features prepared for the future
Microsoft plans to add several capabilities to Windows Search, including:
End of 2026: Add previews and file details to help distinguish files with similar names.
Web search: Add data previews and filters to make it easier to find what you need.
Year 2027: Implement the new Search format in the Start menu, initially still using the old search system during the testing phase.
Already being tested, who can use it?
The new Windows Search is gradually being made available to Windows Insider members in the Experimental channel, with the first version supporting only English and some capabilities still under development.
General users must wait for further announcements from Microsoft regarding the official schedule for activation.
Summary: The new Windows Search helps Windows 11 users search and command their computer from a single box, from adjusting settings to managing various windows, transforming Search from a general search tool into a more convenient shortcut for working on the computer.
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