Google launches new experimental Windows app to search the web, Google Drive & local files

Google has released a new experimental Google app for Windows through Search Labs, currently limited to users in the United States. Unlike the traditional Google Search app on smartphones, this desktop app lets users search not only the web but also Google Drive, installed apps, and PC files from a single interface, offering functionality more similar to Spotlight on macOS, or PowerToys Run on Windows and its more advanced Command Palette tool. (let’s pretend that Windows Search does not exist)

The app can be launched with the Alt + Space shortcut, and during setup users must sign in with a personal Google account to grant access to Drive and local files, though Google Workspace and Education accounts are not supported. The app also integrates Google Lens, making it possible to capture any part of the screen to search, translate text, or use AI Mode for problem-solving and follow-up questions. Drive files can be accessed directly without installing the Drive desktop client, as the app pulls results from the cloud.

At this stage the app is only available in English, requires Windows 10 or newer, and is limited to users 13 or older. Those interested in testing it can join the experiment through Google Search Labs.