Spotlight-Like Search Bar Comes to Windows

Google has launched an experimental Windows app designed for snappy desktop search. The app, which mimics macOS's Spotlight, lets users instantly search their local files, installed apps, Google Drive, and the web using the Alt + Space shortcut. Google's Search Labs says this offers quick access to a wide range of information from the device itself and from cloud sources.

The unnamed app has Google Lens built in, meaning users can select anything on their screen and search it. This makes it possible to translate images or text, get help with math, and perform other tasks that require virtual eyes for recognition. "AI Mode" lets users ask multipart or complex questions, similar to how they'd use ChatGPT or Perplexity. There's even an option to switch to dark mode.

Google currently offers the app in English to US-based users with PCs running Windows 10 or 11. Early testers ...