This week marks an exciting development for Windows 11 users, as a new build has been rolled out to Windows Insiders in the Dev channel, introducing significant upgrades in local search capabilities and enhancements to the Click-To-Do tool, which now operates independently of Recall.
Revamping Local Search
One of the most thrilling aspects of this update is the improvement in local search. Many users, including myself, have been frustrated with the previous search functionality in Windows—it simply wasn’t up to par. The latest enhancements transform local search by utilizing on-device AI processing to efficiently index local files, allowing users to employ a more natural language approach to find documents, images, and other files.
While these improvements do not yet extend to online services like OneDrive, I found some success by testing the feature with local files. Surprisingly, using broad search terms led to discoveries of lesser-known files that previously eluded traditional search efforts.
One standout aspect is that this new functionality operates completely offline through the Neural Processing Unit (NPU), enabling natural language searches without needing a Wi-Fi connection. After testing this personally, I can confirm that it leverages the NPU robustly, especially during more complex searches.
This groundbreaking on-device AI experience is driven by Phi Silica, Microsoft’s compact language model, which has been ingeniously designed for Copilot+ PCs.
Enhanced Click-To-Do Feature
The Click-To-Do tool had prefaced a cumbersome usage experience by be confined to the Recall feature, requiring tedious navigation to access its functionality. Now, it has been improved for easier accessibility across Windows with the straightforward WIN + Q shortcut.
Since testing this, I’ve incorporated Click-To-Do into my daily tasks significantly. Its summarization function operates seamlessly, and the aesthetic attributes—such as the wave effect and sparkling screen edges when active—are delightful touches that enhance interaction.
Although reminiscent of Google’s mobile ‘circle to search’ feature, incorporating a similar tool into Windows represents a genius innovation, granted users have compatible hardware. The illustration above demonstrates the impressive summarization capabilities at your disposal.
At present, this functionality is exclusive to Copilot+ PCs equipped with Snapdragon X series processors. Enthusiasts can expect additional support for AMD and Intel in the near future, opening this feature to a broader audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the main improvements in Windows 11 local search?
The upgraded local search in Windows 11 now utilizes local AI processing to enable natural language queries for finding indexed files more efficiently, leading to a significant improvement over previous search functionalities.
2. How does the Click-To-Do tool work now?
Click-To-Do is now accessible anywhere in Windows through the WIN + Q shortcut, allowing users to summarize content seamlessly without needing to open the Recall feature.
3. Which devices support these new features?
Currently, the new search and Click-To-Do functionalities are available on Copilot+ PCs that come equipped with Snapdragon X series processors, with support for AMD and Intel processors expected soon.
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