Smarter Search in Windows 11
How often do you search for a file, only to realise you can’t quite remember what you called it?
You know it exists. You remember writing it. You might even recall roughly when.
But then Windows search gives you the digital equivalent of a blank stare—or worse, offers up random internet links and an unrelated file from 2019.
Frustrating? Absolutely.
It’s a familiar problem for teams dealing with countless files, folders, and overlapping projects.
Now, Microsoft is finally stepping up with a solution.
An upcoming Windows 11 update is introducing a major improvement: natural language search. Instead of trying to recall exact file names, you’ll be able to search with everyday phrases like “find the notes from the July project meeting” or “show me pictures from the team’s summer BBQ”. And your computer will actually understand what you mean.
This upgrade will make search feel less like coding and more like conversation. But there’s a catch—it only works if you’re using a Copilot+ PC.
These are Microsoft’s latest AI-powered computers, designed with a built-in Neural Processing Unit (NPU). This chip is made to run AI features directly on your device, without needing internet access. That means faster performance, better privacy, and access to new tools like smarter search and the Copilot assistant.
Copilot is already integrated with Windows 11 and Microsoft 365. It can help draft emails, generate images, and now even locate files based on vague or casual descriptions.
The smarter search feature is currently in preview testing on Windows 11 for Copilot+ devices. If your business is using OneDrive, you’ll benefit even more—cloud files will be included in the smarter search results.
But here’s the important bit: if you don’t have a Copilot+ PC, you won’t see this feature—at least not yet.
So, if you’re planning a hardware refresh this year, this may be a key feature to watch. It’s one of those small everyday upgrades that can significantly boost productivity and reduce day-to-day annoyances for your team.
Wondering whether a Copilot+ PC is right for your business? We can help you decide if it’s the right move, and make sure your tools are working the way you need them to.
