Google is testing its own official app on Windows that competes with my favorite PowerToys feature
September 17, 2025
Among the standout features of Windows 11, PowerToys Run has garnered considerable admiration, evolving into what many are now calling the PowerToys Command Palette. This launcher and search tool has long been a favorite of mine, harking back to my earlier days as a Mac user.
Google’s New App for Windows
Today, however, I was taken by surprise when Google announced the launch of a similar application for Windows. According to a recent blog post from Google, the new app allows users to search without the need to switch windows or disrupt their workflow. Whether you’re drafting a document or immersed in a game, a simple press of Alt + Space will enable you to search for information across your computer files, installed applications, Google Drive files, and the web.
The app also features Google Lens integration, allowing users to select and search anything displayed on their screens. This functionality makes it easier to translate images or text, assist with homework problems, and much more. Additionally, the app offers enhanced AI-powered responses in AI Mode, encouraging users to explore further with follow-up questions and relevant links.
This is it, the new Google app for Windows. (Image credit: Google)
However, it’s worth noting that, in line with Google’s typical rollout strategy, the app is currently only available in the United States. This limitation means that many eager users, including myself, are left waiting for a chance to experience its features.
From what I’ve gathered, the new app seems to closely resemble PowerToys Run, though it diverges somewhat from the more robust Command Palette. For those already embedded in the Google ecosystem, the quick access to Google Drive files is undoubtedly a significant advantage. It appears that the app utilizes web access for this functionality, eliminating the need for the Windows client of Google Drive.
The integration of Google Lens is particularly intriguing. As a long-time Android user, I have relied on this feature for years, and I can easily envision incorporating it into my workflow on Windows. Google Lens has consistently excelled at identifying objects and text, and the addition of AI capabilities only enhances its utility.
That said, I remain hesitant to abandon the Command Palette entirely. It already allows for web searches as well as local file and application searches, all while being open-source and extensible through plugins. While the Command Palette may appear daunting to newcomers, its versatility is a strong selling point.
For those who have experience with Chromebooks, Google’s new offering may feel more approachable. If you happen to be in the U.S., you can explore this new app by visiting the Google Search Labs page. Should you decide to give it a try, I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments, as I find myself excluded from this exciting development.
Google is testing its own official app on Windows that competes with my favorite PowerToys feature
Among the standout features of Windows 11, PowerToys Run has garnered considerable admiration, evolving into what many are now calling the PowerToys Command Palette. This launcher and search tool has long been a favorite of mine, harking back to my earlier days as a Mac user.
Google’s New App for Windows
Today, however, I was taken by surprise when Google announced the launch of a similar application for Windows. According to a recent blog post from Google, the new app allows users to search without the need to switch windows or disrupt their workflow. Whether you’re drafting a document or immersed in a game, a simple press of Alt + Space will enable you to search for information across your computer files, installed applications, Google Drive files, and the web.
The app also features Google Lens integration, allowing users to select and search anything displayed on their screens. This functionality makes it easier to translate images or text, assist with homework problems, and much more. Additionally, the app offers enhanced AI-powered responses in AI Mode, encouraging users to explore further with follow-up questions and relevant links.
(Image credit: Google)
However, it’s worth noting that, in line with Google’s typical rollout strategy, the app is currently only available in the United States. This limitation means that many eager users, including myself, are left waiting for a chance to experience its features.
From what I’ve gathered, the new app seems to closely resemble PowerToys Run, though it diverges somewhat from the more robust Command Palette. For those already embedded in the Google ecosystem, the quick access to Google Drive files is undoubtedly a significant advantage. It appears that the app utilizes web access for this functionality, eliminating the need for the Windows client of Google Drive.
The integration of Google Lens is particularly intriguing. As a long-time Android user, I have relied on this feature for years, and I can easily envision incorporating it into my workflow on Windows. Google Lens has consistently excelled at identifying objects and text, and the addition of AI capabilities only enhances its utility.
That said, I remain hesitant to abandon the Command Palette entirely. It already allows for web searches as well as local file and application searches, all while being open-source and extensible through plugins. While the Command Palette may appear daunting to newcomers, its versatility is a strong selling point.
For those who have experience with Chromebooks, Google’s new offering may feel more approachable. If you happen to be in the U.S., you can explore this new app by visiting the Google Search Labs page. Should you decide to give it a try, I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments, as I find myself excluded from this exciting development.