Google Brings Spotlight-Like Search and AI Features to Windows PCs
Google is leveraging its new AI model and other search tools to introduce local file discovery and enhanced search capabilities for Windows users. Mac users have long relied on Spotlight to quickly find files and other content on their systems. Now, Windows PCs may get their own version—powered by Google. The upcoming Google app will support both Windows 11 and older Windows 10 devices.
According to Google, the Windows Search app aims to provide a Spotlight-like experience, allowing users to search for files, installed apps, and even cloud-stored content.
Spotlight Search for Windows: What to Expect
Currently, the Google app for Windows is in testing with a limited group in the U.S. through its Search Labs program. While Google already offers a range of apps and tools for Windows, this is the first solution designed to bring a Spotlight-style search experience to the platform, with plans to expand access over time.
To activate the search, users press Alt + Space, which opens a search tab where they can look for files, apps, or browse the web. Results are displayed in organized categories, including Apps and Websites.
With Google powering this feature, users gain capabilities beyond the standard Spotlight tool. Google Lens integration allows text translation from web pages or documents, seamless copying to the clipboard, and AI-powered search that curates content from hundreds of websites, similar to Google’s AI search mode on mobile and web.
While AI features have mostly been limited to mobile devices, this app expands their reach to desktops. Signing in with a Google account personalizes results, providing more context-aware, AI-enhanced responses.
At present, the app is only available to U.S. users in this experimental phase. Still, it could eventually become a valuable tool for Windows PCs, which currently lack a comprehensive Spotlight-like search experience for both local files and the internet.
