Google launched a practical application for Windows computers. It can browse files, Drive, and the web, but there's a catch

On Tuesday, Google introduced an experimental application for Windows that brings fast search across your computer and the web. Following the example of the Spotlight feature on macOS, it allows you to instantly search for information from local files, installed applications, the cloud service Drive, and the internet using the keyboard shortcut Alt + Space – all without having to switch between windows.

Search without interrupting your work

The new application creates a floating search bar on the desktop, which you can move anywhere on the screen and resize as needed. As soon as you press Alt + Space, a search field will appear, ready to accept your query. Google emphasizes that the application works without interrupting your current work – you can type a document or play a game and quickly search for something at the same time.

The application searches four main sources simultaneously: local files on your computer, installed applications, documents in Google Drive, and of course, the web. Results are displayed in a clear interface where you can switch between different categories such as all results, images, shopping, videos, and more.

Google Lens directly on screen

An interesting feature is the integrated Google Lens, which can analyze anything on your screen. Simply select a part of the screen, and the application will recognize text or an image. Google provides specific examples of use: you can translate text from images, get help with math problems, or search for information about objects in photos.

For more complex queries, AI Mode is available, which uses artificial intelligence to answer multi-part questions. In this mode, you can ask follow-up questions and get deeper answers supplemented with useful links.

Installation similar to Chrome

The application requires Windows 10 or newer and installs similarly to the Chrome browser. After installation, you need to log in with a Google account. In the settings, you can change the keyboard shortcut to invoke the application, enable or disable AI Mode, and switch between light and dark mode.

Not yet available for Czech users

Unfortunately, we have bad news for Czech users – the application is currently only available in the USA through Google Search Labs. This experimental program, where Google tests new features before a wider release, is not available in the Czech Republic. Furthermore, the application currently only supports English.

It’s a shame, because I can imagine using it actively. With the ChatGPT desktop app, I’ve grown very fond of quick access to the chatbot using the shortcut Alt + Space. The Google app could offer similar instant availability, plus the ability to search local files and Drive.

Whether and when the application will be released outside the USA, Google has not yet specified. Given that it is an experimental project within Labs, it may take months before it appears globally.

Would you use such an application for quick searching on Windows?

Sources: Google, The Verge, TechCrunch