Microsoft tests cleaner Windows 11 search without ads and clutter
Microsoft is testing a streamlined Windows 11 search menu that removes recommended content and ads, prioritizing local files and settings over web results.
Microsoft has announced it is testing a cleaner version of the Windows 11 search menu, stripping it of recommended content and ads. The changes are being rolled out to Windows Insiders in the Experimental channel.
One of the main changes is a redesigned search homescreen that now displays only recent searches. Previously, opening the search menu showed recent searches alongside distracting tiles on the right pane, including the image of the day, daily quizzes, trending searches, and game recommendations.
Microsoft is also cleaning up web results: the search menu will surface the "most relevant answer" first, rather than showing related products and promotions. Additionally, testers can now turn off web and Microsoft Store recommendations entirely from the Settings menu.
Other improvements include clearer metadata and a file preview in the right pane, as well as prioritization of local files, apps, and settings in search results. The system also better handles typos, extra letters, and partial words, along with performance improvements.
