Microsoft has revamped the search experience for Windows 11 Insider Dev and Beta builds by introducing the 'Ask Copilot anything' search box. This new feature replaces the traditional search box when enabled and integrates directly with the Copilot app.
Feature Details
In the recent Insider builds, the 'Ask Copilot' box accepts prompts or search terms and presents a mix of suggested prompts and search results. However, it provides different results compared to the standard search—for example, it couldn’t find 'winver', whereas the traditional search could. The results dialog appears as a floating window on the screen, potentially causing disruptions if the taskbar is left-aligned.
- The new search box can be enabled on Windows Insider build 26220.7051 or higher.
- To activate it, ViveTool must be used with feature IDs.
- Copilot Vision, initiated via a glasses icon, lets Copilot analyze screen content, but may misidentify details.
- The microphone is enabled by default for voice interaction with Copilot.
User Experience and Requirements
To enable the 'Ask Copilot' feature, users need to download and set up ViveTool, then perform command prompt operations to enable the specific feature IDs. The process involves unzipping ViveTool to a directory, executing commands from that directory, and making adjustments in the taskbar settings. The feature feels integrated with the Copilot voice service and app.
The introduction of the 'Ask Copilot' search box marks another gateway to the Copilot app and voice functionalities. However, it has not necessarily enhanced the traditional search experience, and users may consider retaining the existing search interface.
