Google is experimenting on a new desktop search app for Windows users, bringing a Spotlight-like experience to PCs. The experimental app is available through Google Search Labs. It makes finding information and files faster by combining local and cloud-based search in one place. Also Read: Google Layoffs: Over 200 Workers For Gemini And AI Overviews Fired, Here’s Why
The app can be launched with a simple keyboard shortcut – Alt + Space – instantly pulling up a search bar on your desktop. From there, users can quickly look through local files, installed apps, Google Drive content, and the web. This approach mirrors Apple’s Spotlight tool on macOS, which recently received an overhaul with the Tahoe update. 
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Beyond basic search, Google has added powerful features to the Windows app. The search giant has integrated Google Lens within the app, allowing users to capture any part of their screen for translation, text recognition, or instant lookups. For more advanced queries, the app includes an AI Mode, which can handle multi-step questions, solve math problems, and provide detailed answers much like Google’s web-based AI features. Also Read: How To Create Your Photo With Bollywood Actors Using Gemini Nano Banana: Check This Simple Prompt
Users can also filter results by category – such as Images, Shopping, Videos, or AI responses – and toggle between light and dark modes. After installation, the app places a resizable and movable search bar directly on the desktop, which can be minimised at any time with the Alt + Space shortcut.
The setup process is simple: the app installs quickly, asks users to sign in with their Google account, and provides easy access to settings. From there, shortcuts and AI options can be customised, making the experience more personal.
Currently, the new app is available only in English (US) and requires Windows 10 or Windows 11. As it’s still in the experimental phase, access is limited to those enrolled in Search Labs.
With this launch, Google is positioning its desktop search app as a competitor not only to Microsoft’s native Windows Search and Copilot+ features but also as a useful cross-platform tool for users already deep in Google’s ecosystem.
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