Google’s New Desktop App Brings Spotlight Search to Windows
▼ Summary
– Google launched an experimental app for Windows that enables faster searching via an Alt + Space shortcut.
– The app allows users to search computer files, installed apps, Google Drive, and the web, similar to Mac’s Spotlight.
– It is available through Google’s Search Labs program for testing and feedback before a wider release.
– The app includes Google Lens for on-screen searches and AI Mode for handling complex, multi-part questions.
– It is currently available in English for U.S. users with Windows 10 or later and offers various search filters and dark mode.
Google has introduced a fresh desktop application for Windows, aiming to streamline how users access information across their devices and the web. This innovative tool responds to a simple Alt + Space shortcut, pulling up a search bar that scans local files, installed applications, Google Drive content, and internet results in one unified interface.
Drawing clear inspiration from macOS Spotlight, the feature delivers rapid, comprehensive search capabilities directly from the desktop. It’s currently accessible through Search Labs, Google’s platform for public testing of upcoming features, allowing early adopters to shape its development with their input.
A standout aspect of the app is its built-in Google Lens functionality. This lets people select any on-screen text or image to perform actions like translation, solving math equations, or identifying objects. For more involved inquiries, users can engage AI Mode to pose detailed, multi-step questions and receive in-depth answers.
The interface supports toggling between various result categories, including web links, images, shopping suggestions, and videos. Personalization options extend to a dark mode setting, enhancing visual comfort during extended use.
At this stage, the application is available only in English and limited to users within the United States. It requires a device running Windows 10 or a more recent version of the operating system.
(Source: TechCrunch)
