Microsoft Unveils New Windows Search That Runs Thousands of Actions
The rebuilt Windows Search arrives in WinUI 3 and lets Insiders test taskbar actions starting October 7, 2026, on the Experimental channel.
Microsoft unveiled a revamped Windows Search experience for Windows 11 at its Windows and Surface event, according to windowscentral.com. The new Search can perform thousands of actions directly from the Taskbar rather than only returning links and files.
The experience is built on WinUI 3, and Windows Insiders can begin testing it starting October 7, 2026, initially through the Experimental channel.
Copilot can be summoned through the new Search and will show its responses within the Search interface. The feature can also send a text message through Phone Link, among the actions it handles from the Taskbar.
Microsoft previously said the new Search will roll out to Windows 11 PCs starting this fall.
What testers get first
The Experimental channel release gives Insiders the earliest build of the WinUI 3-based Search, ahead of the broader Windows 11 rollout Microsoft has said will begin this fall.
Quick answers
When can Windows Insiders try the new Windows Search?
Testing starts October 7, 2026, initially through the Experimental channel.
What can the new Windows Search do?
It can perform thousands of actions directly from the Taskbar, including sending a text message through Phone Link, and it can summon Copilot with responses shown inside Search.
When will the new Search reach regular Windows 11 PCs?
Microsoft has said it will roll out to Windows 11 PCs starting this fall.