Microsoft Unveils Semantic Search and Copilot Home

What is Semantic Search?

The semantic search feature in Windows Copilot allows users to find files not just by their names, but by describing their contents — for example, typing "find images of bridges at sunset" will locate relevant pictures even if file names are forgotten. This AI-powered search runs locally on Copilot+ PCs, using on-device neural language models for privacy and fast results, and does not require an internet connection.

H2: How Copilot Home Improves the PC Experience

The new Copilot Home streamlines access to recent apps, files, and chats directly from a single interface. Users can open, summarize, or analyze any recently used document by clicking on it right from the Copilot Home window, promoting ease-of-use and workflow efficiency.

Advanced Features and User Controls

Natural language-based file search for images, documents, and more.

Permissions management: Users can set exactly which folders or content Copilot can access.

Powered by on-device AI, ensuring privacy—semantic indexing and query processing are performed entirely on the user’s hardware.

Smart recommendations and guided help sessions for recent applications and files, making task automation easier.

Availability and Impact

Currently, these features are available only for Copilot+ PC and Windows Insider users, with a broader release expected soon. The rollout marks a shift toward more intelligent, context-aware ways of managing files, apps, and workflow on Windows devices.

Microsoft’s latest update positions Copilot and semantic search as key productivity tools, leveraging AI to make PC usage more direct, natural, and user-centric.