# Microsoft tests Windows Search with system actions and phone messaging

_Published Thursday, October 8, 2026 at 4:33 PM EDT · Products · Latest · Tier 2 — Notable_

![windowssearch — Primary](https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/windowssearch.png?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0%2C3.3965877564098%2C100%2C93.20682448718&w=1200)

Microsoft is testing a redesigned Windows Search with Windows Insiders that can change system settings, arrange app windows and send text messages through Phone Link, The Verge reports. Search also displays answers inline and previews PowerPoint presentations, photos and other files.

The interface uses WinUI 3, and Microsoft says early tests show improvements in performance and memory usage. The company is also improving matching for typos and synonyms. In a hands-on demonstration, The Verge found the interface quick and less cluttered. The redesign remains in Insider testing; Microsoft says work is underway to bring it to the Start menu next year.

## Sources

- [The Verge](https://www.theverge.com/news/1008320/microsoft-windows-search-overhaul-windows-11)

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Canonical: https://techandbusiness.org/newswire/JYEXJfqbLqNMSkFmGCwyPg
Published: 2026-10-08T20:33:05.951Z
Story chronology: 2026-10-08T19:30:21.000Z
Retrieved: 2026-10-08T23:18:14.200Z
Publisher: Tech & Business (techandbusiness.org)