Microsoft's Windows apology tour continues as the company addresses long-standing issues with the operating system.
Following the introduction of sweeping changes to the Start menu and taskbar, Microsoft is now turning its attention to the Windows Search box, a feature notorious for being bloated with ads and unwanted web pages.
For those who have grown tired of this clutter, Microsoft is slowly testing an updated Search Box that prioritizes local files and apps, loading much faster than its predecessor.
Windows Insiders can be among the first to experience these changes, which include a redesigned UI focused on local search.
Windows Search has undergone a significant transformation, no longer displaying a "Recommended" feed of web content and suggestions.
Instead, users will be presented with a clean list of recent searches, with local searches taking priority over web results.
When typing a query, Microsoft will now prioritize local searches first, ensuring that local apps, files, and folders show up quickly.
The results page has also been updated, featuring a cleaner design with more breathing room and additional context, such as file type and modification date.
Users will also be able to preview files and see metadata once they select a result, with improved buttons for main actions like "Open."
Microsoft is committed to reliability, promising a decrease in crashes and random glitches, although time will tell how well this plays out in practice.
The broader search integration is still present, but with a redesign that pushes web results below local results, allowing users to see the direct result at the top.
Users can also disable web and Microsoft Store suggestions in search through distinct toggles in Windows Settings.
To disable web search and Microsoft Store suggestions, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Show Suggested Search Results and toggle off the switches for Web Searches and Microsoft Store.
