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Microsoft is developing an option to disable web search results in Windows 11’s search function, addressing a long-standing complaint.
The company previewed the function at a Windows Insiders Program meetup in San Francisco, a day before the Build developer conference. Microsoft showed that the option will appear in settings through Privacy & security > Search.
Under a section called Show suggested search results, you’ll be able to toggle off web searches. The same interface also suggests the company is looking at disabling the Microsoft Store from appearing in searches, too.
(Credit: Michael Kan/PCMag)The default mode for presenting web results in Windows 11 search has been criticized for adding clutter, needlessly promoting Microsoft Bing, and slowing down the OS. Web results can also confuse users when they’re simply looking for an installed app on the PC.
(Credit: Michael Kan/PCMag)To remove web results, Windows 11 owners resorted to manually changing the OS’s registry, which isn’t particularly user-friendly. But it looks like Microsoft will finally add an easy way to shut out intrusive web results. No timing was provided, but it should arrive first for beta users enrolled in the Windows Insider program.
(Credit: Michael Kan/PCMag)At the event, Microsoft also said it’s been improving search speeds. Expect File Explorer to launch more quickly, too. Another enhancement involves bulk delete. The company’s internal build has improved the function's performance by 30%.
(Credit: Michael Kan/PCMag)
(Credit: Michael Kan/PCMag)The company also highlighted new features already available in Insider preview builds for beta users, including the ability to move the taskbar from the left, right, or top of the screen. You can also shrink the taskbar to create more room to show more apps.
A new preview release also lets you search using as few as two characters. The movable taskbar and other features will likely arrive in the mainstream Windows 11 updates in the coming months.
The changes arrive as Microsoft has been promising major improvements to Windows following some concerns and backlash that the company has been prioritizing AI features over OS performance. A month ago, the company revealed it's striving to bring a calmer tone to the Windows 11 interface, which includes hiding the MSN News feed from the Widgets board.