Windows 11 desktop search box appears in Insider Build 25120
Forget the taskbar, Microsoft is working on a search box right in the middle of the desktop.
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What you need to know
Windows 11 Build 25120 recently rolled out to Insiders in the Dev Channel. The build includes one new feature, a search box on the desktop. The tool can be used to browse the web and functions similarly to the search widget for Windows 11.
Microsoft outlined in Februarythat it would try out concepts with longer lead times in the Dev Channel. The search box in the latest Insider build of Windows is an example of those types of features. Microsoft noted that these types of features may never make their way to Windows but are in place to elicit feedback.
“Starting with this preview build, some Insiders will see one of these conceptual features as we begin to explore exposing lightweight interactive content on the Windows desktop,” said Microsoft in itsblog post about Build 25120.
“Today, Windows exposes this type of content in the Widgets board. To begin assessing this general idea and interaction model, the first exploration in this area adds a search box displayed on the desktop that enables you to search the web.”
Microsoft is testing a new Search bar interface directly on the desktop in the latest Windows 11 dev channel build pic.twitter.com/8LsiK7sdtBMay 18, 2022
You can remove the search box by right-clicking the desktop, selecting “Show more options” and toggling off “Show search.”
The search box is the only new feature in Windows 11 Build 25120, but the update includes a short list of fixes:
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
