Microsoft is testing a major Windows Search overhaul that lets you remove ads and clutter

Microsoft has revealed that it is working on a considerable overhaul of Windows 11 Search to actually reduce clutter and make local content easier to find. The most interesting part of this new version is that it removes ads and product recommendations from the Search window, although Microsoft Store suggestions may still appear. A new setting also lets users disable web results and Store suggestions entirely, keeping Search focused on installed apps, settings, local files, folders, and connected content, which is certainly unexpected from Microsoft, but a welcome change nonetheless.

Apps, personal files, and Windows settings will rank above web results or Store recommendations when they are the strongest match. System locations such as This PC and Recycle Bin should also be easier to find. Search will better recognize incomplete or misspelled app names, such as “utlook” for Outlook, and file searches can now begin with queries as short as two characters. Results will more clearly identify whether an item is an app, setting, file, web result, or Store suggestion. Connected and cloud files may also appear when they provide a stronger match.

The update is rolling out to Windows Insiders in the Experimental channel while Microsoft refines settings rankings and improves reliability to reduce crashes and loading failures, with availability varying by device and region during the gradual rollout.