Nowadays, whether it is for study, office work, or entertainment, everyone’s life is connected to computers and the internet. Finding a file, app, or piece of information can be a real hassle, and having to repeatedly switch between windows can be a hassle. To address this issue, Google has launched a new experimental app for Windows in Labs that promises to make your work easier and faster.
Google is testing a new floating search bar Windows desktop app in Labs that works like Spotlight on macOS. This app will have Google Lens and AI features, allowing users to instantly search anything on the Windows screen and continue with follow-up questions. So let’s take a closer look at this Google app for Windows in Labs.
Instant Search with Alt + Space
The biggest feature of this app is its shortcuts. Pressing Alt + Space brings up a search bar on the screen. Now, whether you are working on a document or playing a game, you can quickly search using this shortcut. It allows you to search your computer’s files, installed apps, Google Drive, and the web – all from one place.
A Mac-like Spotlight Experience
If you have ever used Spotlight Search on your Mac, this feature will feel similar to that. The only difference is that this Google app is even more comprehensive, as it is not limited to your device but also brings up files from the web and Drive. This means you don’t have to waste time searching multiple tools or different places to access information.
The Magic of Google Lens
This app also includes Google Lens. With it, you can select any text or image on your screen and instantly translate it or understand its meaning. For example, if a paragraph in another language appears on your screen, you can select it and convert it to your language. Or, if your child has a difficult homework question, you can highlight it and get help from AI Mode. This feature can prove especially useful for students and researchers.
In-depth insights from AI Mode
This new Google app isn’t limited to simple searches. It features AI Mode, where you can ask complex questions and receive detailed answers. This mode also handles follow-up questions. For example, if you are searching for information on a scientific topic, you will find detailed information, links, and suggestions all in one place.
Different Modes and Dark Theme
Users have several options. You can switch between All Results, Images, Shopping, Videos, or AI Mode. It also offers both dark and light themes, allowing you to customize the screen to your liking. Dark mode provides eye relief for those who spend long periods of time staring at the screen.
Easy Installation and Settings
The app’s installation process is somewhat similar to Chrome. After downloading, you need to sign in with your Google account. A search bar appears on your desktop, which you can move or resize to your desired location on the screen. You can also change shortcuts and turn AI Mode on or off.
Available in the US and English only
This app is currently in an experimental state and is available in the US for English only. To get it, you will need to join Google’s Search Labs service. It will only work on PCs with Windows 10 or higher.
Why is it special?
Windows already has a built-in search feature, but its speed and results are often criticized. Microsoft recently improved it with Copilot Plus for PCs, but this new app from Google could prove to be faster and easier in many ways. Searching local files, Drive documents, and installed apps from one place, along with the use of Lens and AI, makes it even more useful.
A glimpse into the future
Despite Google’s numerous products, desktop apps have been few and far between. This is why this launch is particularly significant. If the experiment is successful, the app could become widely available in the future and perhaps even include multi-language support. Imagine how convenient the experience would be if you could instantly search in Hindi or any other language on your computer.
