Windows aficionados, strap in! The latest build of Windows 11 (in the Insider Dev Channel) is rolling out some slick updates aimed at making your life easier and your interactions with your PC smarter—thanks to AI. Here’s the lowdown on two standout updates: a completely revamped search function that promises to erase your frustration over locating files and a vastly improved Click-To-Do feature, now free from previous constraints. Let’s break down what these changes mean for you, how they work, and whether it’s finally time to start that upgrade you’ve been procrastinating.
This updated search tool leans heavily on local AI processing—meaning all the magic happens right on your PC. The introduction of natural language search allows users to type phrases such as “show images from my vacation” or “find that Word doc about finances,” and voilà! The system identifies and retrieves exactly what you’re asking for.
Many users, including the writer from the source article, noted that despite Search still being limited to local files (it doesn't index files in OneDrive or other cloud platforms just yet), its performance feels miles ahead of earlier iterations. Simply put, it’s a smarter, quicker, and more privacy-conscious search tool. Even the heaviest users of Windows Search might now feel a spark of hope.
The standout feature within Click-To-Do is summarization. While it might sound unimpressive on paper, seeing this in action—a wave of visual flair across your screen, summarizing what's in focus—is a game changer. Imagine pulling key highlights from a long email or condensing that overly verbose document into bite-sized insights instantly.
Practical applications abound:
Yet Microsoft’s uneven commitment to rolling out these features (Snapdragon first, Intel/AMD later) might frustrate users who already heavily invested in their Windows ecosystem. While the exclusivity for Copilot+ PCs makes sense from a developmental standpoint, it leaves older systems feeling left out—again.
Why Should You Care?
Source: Windows Latest Hands-on with AI in Windows 11 Search and improved Click-To-Do
Windows Search Gets Smarter—Locally!
The Big Revamp
We’ve all been there—typing a dozen different variations of a file name into Windows Search, hoping against hope that it unearths that elusive document or image hiding in the labyrinth of our file system. Often, it feels like Search was designed to punish instead of assist. But now, Microsoft is rolling out what feels like a redemption arc for Windows Search.This updated search tool leans heavily on local AI processing—meaning all the magic happens right on your PC. The introduction of natural language search allows users to type phrases such as “show images from my vacation” or “find that Word doc about finances,” and voilà! The system identifies and retrieves exactly what you’re asking for.
What’s Under the Hood? Phi Silica and NPU at Play
Here’s where things get nerdy (in the best way). This functionality is powered by Phi Silica, a lean, on-device AI language model designed for the newer Copilot+ PCs. Processing happens directly on your machine, leveraging your Neural Processing Unit (NPU)—a specialized chip that handles AI tasks at breakneck speed. What's genuinely intriguing is that because this works locally, you can use the upgraded Search even when you’re offline. No Wi-Fi? No problem.Many users, including the writer from the source article, noted that despite Search still being limited to local files (it doesn't index files in OneDrive or other cloud platforms just yet), its performance feels miles ahead of earlier iterations. Simply put, it’s a smarter, quicker, and more privacy-conscious search tool. Even the heaviest users of Windows Search might now feel a spark of hope.
But Wait, What’s the Catch?
While performance improvements are clear, only newer Copilot+ PCs equipped with an NPU (think Snapdragon X series processors) are currently capable of running this feature. AMD and Intel-powered systems should eventually gain support, but as it stands, customers with legacy systems will sit out this round of AI glory.The New and Improved Click-To-Do: Beyond Recall
Click-To-Do has been given an overhaul that expands its versatility dramatically. Previously corralled inside “Recall” (a timeline-style feature on certain systems), most users didn’t give it the time of day because it required too many steps to access. Now, Click-To-Do can be activated anywhere in the OS via the WIN + Q shortcut, making it a truly integrated tool across your workflow.The standout feature within Click-To-Do is summarization. While it might sound unimpressive on paper, seeing this in action—a wave of visual flair across your screen, summarizing what's in focus—is a game changer. Imagine pulling key highlights from a long email or condensing that overly verbose document into bite-sized insights instantly.
A Nod to Mobile Usability
If this feels familiar, it’s probably because it parallels Google’s “circle to search” mobile gesture. But Microsoft takes it up a notch by merging slick visuals (a sparkling edge effect) with top-notch functionality. The end result? Click-To-Do makes your desktop computer feel as dynamic and responsive as your smartphone.Hardware Limitations Again
As tempting as this feature sounds, bear in mind that it’s restricted to Snapdragon X series processors for now—those processors designed specifically for Windows on ARM devices. Support for AMD and Intel chips is promised, so hang tight if you're running one of their systems.Real-World Applications: Why These Updates Matter
From Search to Something Revolutionary
The revamped search isn’t just about convenience—it actively bridges the gap between how humans naturally think and how computers retrieve data. If you’ve ever fumbled with older systems, typing exact phrases or navigating folder upon folder, this feature replaces those rigid requirements with fluid, intuitive queries. It also ensures that even in low-connectivity environments, your PC remains powerful and useful.Practical applications abound:
- Finding bulky workloads or images stored months ago, using only vague memories of their contents.
- Quick offline retrieval in workplaces or schools reliant on local servers.
- Enhanced privacy—no need to worry about indexing or querying over the web.
Envisioning Productivity with a Better Click-To-Do
Click-To-Do turns what used to be a novelty into an essential. For anyone juggling a dozen tasks, summarization saves time in ways that feel genuinely transformative:- Professionals summarizing sprawling email threads or meeting notes.
- Students condensing digital textbooks, syllabi, or assignments into manageable tidbits.
- Gamers or creatives multitasking workflows without breaking immersion.
The Broader Implications: What This Tells Us About Windows 11 (and Microsoft)
These updates reflect a broader vision from Microsoft: AI-first computing aimed at integrating seamless, intelligent features into everyday workflows. Frontloading tasks to on-device processors shows the company’s commitment to privacy and performance alike. And by marrying practical tools with smaller magical touches like animations, this feels like a deliberate attempt to make Windows—dare I say it—fun again.Yet Microsoft’s uneven commitment to rolling out these features (Snapdragon first, Intel/AMD later) might frustrate users who already heavily invested in their Windows ecosystem. While the exclusivity for Copilot+ PCs makes sense from a developmental standpoint, it leaves older systems feeling left out—again.
TL;DR Summary
What’s New?- New Local AI Processing for Search: Search files faster using natural language. Works offline with an integrated NPU. Limited to local files only (so far).
- Enhanced Click-To-Do: Quickest task tool summarized at your fingertips. Available now with WIN + Q shortcut.
Why Should You Care?
- Offline-first tools: Suitable for private workflows or low connectivity.
- Time-saving productivity: No more fumbling through folders or overthinking search phrases.
- AI as the backbone of desktop usability. The future is unfolding in your Start menu.
Source: Windows Latest Hands-on with AI in Windows 11 Search and improved Click-To-Do
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