One of the most practical features on Apple’s macOS is Spotlight, a built-in search tool that lets users quickly find apps, emails, contacts, photos, documents, and even web results—all in one place. It’s fast, versatile, and has become an essential part of the macOS experience.
Until now, Spotlight has remained an Apple-exclusive function. But that’s about to change. According to reports from The Verge, Google is developing and testing a similar application for Windows.
The tool aims to bring the same level of convenience and efficiency to PC users, giving them a centralized way to search both locally and online.
If successful, this move could make a big difference for Windows users who have long relied on fragmented search options. A unified, Google-powered search bar might just become as indispensable on Windows as Spotlight is on the Mac.
Google Tests Spotlight-Like Search Tool for Windows
Windows has always been known as a robust operating system packed with features, many of which now integrate AI to improve productivity. Still, one tool users have often envied from macOS is Spotlight—and Google seems ready to fill that gap.
In a recent announcement, Google revealed that it’s testing a Spotlight-style search interface for Windows through Search Labs. The feature is available for personal Google accounts and can be launched with the simple shortcut Alt+Spacebar.
Once activated, it brings up a sleek search bar where you can quickly locate files, apps, and documents—not only on your computer, but also across Google Drive and the web.
Setup is straightforward: install the app, sign in with your Google account, and you’re ready to go. The tool even includes Google Lens integration, which means you can grab whatever is on your screen to search visually, translate text instantly, or identify objects without leaving your workflow.
Google’s demo highlights practical use cases, like scanning a math problem from an assignment and asking the tool to solve it. Results can be filtered by category—AI answers, images, shopping, videos, and more—making it a true all-in-one search experience.
In short, this is one of the most promising additions to Windows in years, bringing the simplicity of Spotlight with the power of Google’s ecosystem.
Google’s Search Tool vs. Windows’ Native Options
Of course, Windows already includes its own search functionality for finding files and web content, recently enhanced with the Copilot+ PC features. But Google’s experimental tool offers a different experience.
Once installed, a floating search bar appears on your desktop. You can move it anywhere, resize it to your preference, and quickly minimize it with the Alt + Spacebar shortcut. The same command also brings it back whenever you need it, keeping the workflow simple and fast.
Google’s tool also includes customization options: you can toggle AI mode on or off, adjust keyboard shortcuts, and fine-tune the way it works.
To try it out, you’ll need to enable it through Search Labs. Currently, access is limited to users in the United States and requires a PC running Windows 10 or Windows 11.
