What Can Windows 11’s Semantic Search Do for You?
AI-created, human-edited.
If you’ve ever struggled to find files or settings in Windows, the new semantic search powered by AI on Windows 11 Copilot+ PCs could be a serious upgrade. On Hands-On Windows, Paul Thurrott found that, while not perfect, semantic search significantly improves the way you discover files—even in cloud storage like OneDrive—without the frustration of clunky legacy search tools.
Semantic search uses AI models running locally on supported Copilot+ PCs to better understand your search intent. Unlike the old index-based system that relied mostly on file names or exact matches, semantic search interprets natural language—so you can type what you mean, not just keywords.
For example, searching "my mouse pointer is too small" in Windows Settings now surfaces the exact accessibility tweak you need, all through plain English.
Currently, semantic search is only available on Copilot+ PCs with specialized hardware (an MPU for local AI processing), but Microsoft hints it may expand to more devices in the future.
On the show, Paul tested the new search by looking for decades-old content in his OneDrive and archives. He noticed several improvements:
Natural language queries delivered useful results—even with vague or conversational searches.
Results included both deeply archived files and cloud-only items (like those not synced locally).
Search now understands context better, including filtering results by folder or type.
Semantic search also powers improved search in Settings, offering inline actions and natural matches for common user needs.
Powered by on-device AI: No need for an internet connection or cloud computing for search basics.
Works with Documents, Apps, and Settings: Finds files, installed programs, or system tweaks from a single interface.
Supports Some Cloud Accounts: Currently optimized for OneDrive, but third-party support appears promising.
Faster and Broader Results: Surfaces files based on their content and relevance—not just filenames.
Modern UI Elements: Identifiable by a new purple-pink icon and enhanced visuals.
Available Shortcuts: Use Windows Key + S for Start Search or Ctrl + F within File Explorer.
Requirements and Setup Tips
Only for Copilot+ PCs (for now): Must have the right AI hardware (MPU).
To get the best results, turn on Enhanced Indexing in Windows Search Settings.
Search can be fine-tuned to include/exclude cloud locations and specific folders.
The feature will expand to more users in future Windows 11 updates (e.g., version 24H2).
Pros
Much better at understanding what you're looking for.
Finds files in the cloud, even if they're not downloaded.
Settings search now interprets real-world language.
Cons
Requires new Copilot+ PC hardware.
May not be available to all users yet.
Indexing still needs to be set up and may take time on first use.
Key Takeaways
Semantic search offers meaningful improvements over traditional methods, especially for finding old, obscure, or cloud-stored files.
It's dependent on modern hardware but is likely to become more widely available over time.
Enhanced Indexing and cloud integration make it easy to search across devices and services.
If you have a Copilot+ PC, turn on semantic search and enhanced indexing—you'll spend less time hunting for files and more time getting work done. Even though the feature isn’t available to everyone yet, its performance marks a meaningful step forward for Windows users frustrated by past search shortcomings.
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