Google Launches Experimental Windows App for Unified Web, Drive, and Local Search
Key Points
- Google releases an experimental Windows app that unifies web, Drive, and local file search.
- Activate the search bar with Alt+Space or a custom shortcut.
- Results appear in a compact window below the search bar, including Knowledge Graph snippets.
- Google Lens integration enables image search and translation directly from the desktop.
- The app is limited to personal Google accounts and may contain bugs.
- Both Drive and local file indexing are optional, giving users control over searchable data.
- Designed as a streamlined alternative to Windows' built‑in search functionality.
Google has released an experimental desktop application for Windows that lets users search the web, Google Drive, and local files from a single floating bar. The app, currently limited to personal Google accounts, can be summoned with Alt+Space or a custom shortcut. It displays results in a compact window and can surface Knowledge Graph snippets. While the software is still in testing and may contain bugs, it offers a streamlined alternative to Windows' built‑in search and includes Google Lens for image‑based queries and translation.
New Desktop Search Experience
Google introduced an experimental app for Windows that consolidates web, Drive, and local file searches into one interface. After installing the program, users can press Alt+Space—or assign a different shortcut—to bring up a floating search bar that sits atop any screen. Typing a query generates a results pane directly beneath the bar, presenting web links, Drive documents, and local files without needing to switch applications.
Key Features and Functionality
The app pulls content from the Knowledge Graph, allowing users to obtain concise answers without typing full questions. Both Google Drive and local file indexing are optional, giving users control over what data is searchable. An integrated Google Lens component lets users select any on‑screen element for image‑based search or instant translation, extending the app’s utility beyond text queries.
Experimental Status and Limitations
Google emphasizes that the application is experimental. It currently works only with personal Google accounts and may exhibit bugs or performance quirks. The limited rollout reflects Google’s cautious approach to desktop app development, a space where the company has historically offered few products.
Comparison to Existing Windows Search
Microsoft’s native Windows search has been described as “notoriously crummy,” often requiring separate steps to locate local files versus web content. Google’s new offering aims to simplify that process by delivering a unified search experience reminiscent of its Chrome OS interface, but within the Windows environment.
Availability
The app is now available for download and can be installed on compatible Windows PCs. Users interested in trying the tool are encouraged to do so with the understanding that it remains a work in progress.