Microsoft's Intelligent Media Search: A Promising Addition to Windows 11
In the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27695, a new feature dubbed ‘intelligent media search’ has emerged, hinting at a significant enhancement for users seeking efficient ways to manage their media files. While the feature has not been explicitly detailed in the release notes, its presence has sparked interest among tech enthusiasts and professionals alike.
So, what exactly does this feature entail? Once officially confirmed, intelligent media search will utilize AI to scan, scrape, and transcribe media files stored on your device. This process will enable users to conduct spoken word searches across indexed audio and video files, making it easier to locate specific content without the need to sift through lengthy recordings.
This innovation draws parallels to Microsoft’s previously shelved Recall feature, which aimed to take comprehensive screenshots of user activity and create a searchable history. However, intelligent media search appears to be a more pragmatic approach, allowing users to select which files to analyze, thus providing a tailored experience. For professionals who frequently record meetings or reference videos, this tool promises to be a game-changer, transforming the way they interact with their media.
Imagine the convenience of searching through a long video for particular keywords or topics—this capability could enhance productivity and streamline workflows significantly. Despite the excitement surrounding this feature, it is important to note that it is not yet available for testing, even within the latest Insider Preview Build.
Tech enthusiast @XenoPanther was among the first to spot references to this tool, suggesting that its rollout may be on the horizon. The full description of the feature indicates a user-friendly process:
“Search by spoken words in your indexed video or audio files. By clicking ‘I agree,’ you consent to scanning the media files on your device. If needed, the required model will be downloaded and installed in the background. Once the AI model is set up, it needs to transcribe your media files and index them before enabling content-based search. We’ll inform you once the process is complete.”
As anticipation builds, it remains unclear whether intelligent media search will be exclusive to Windows Copilot+ compatible PCs equipped with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) of at least 45 TOPS. Microsoft has yet to provide formal details regarding the feature’s availability, leaving users eager for further updates.
