Software

Google launches Windows app with Spotlight-style search

Ken Metral

16 Sep 2025 — 1 min read

Credit: Google/Alphabet, Inc.

Google announced on Tuesday that it is rolling out a new experimental app for Windows designed to help users find what they need faster. The tool introduces a universal search bar that can be accessed with the Alt + Space shortcut, letting people instantly search across their computer files, installed apps, Google Drive documents, and the web.

The search experience is reminiscent of Spotlight on Mac, which has long been popular for enabling quick, system-wide searches. With Google’s app, Windows users now have a similar way to streamline searches across both local and cloud content.

Powered by Google Lens and AI

One of the standout features of the app is its integration with Google Lens, allowing users to select anything on their screen and search it instantly. This makes it possible to translate text from images, solve math problems, or quickly identify information from visual content.

The app also includes Google’s AI Mode, an interface for asking complex, multi-part questions and receiving detailed, conversational answers. Users can seamlessly switch between different result categories, including All Results, AI Mode, Images, Shopping, and Videos, depending on their needs.

Customization and Availability

For personalization, the app supports a dark mode option for users who prefer a low-light interface.

Currently, the new search app is available only in English and is limited to U.S. users. It requires a PC running Windows 10 or newer. As with other experimental Google projects, it is being released through Search Labs, a program where people can test early-stage features and provide feedback before a broader rollout.

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