In mid-September 2025, Google surprised many by unveiling a new app for Windows, aptly named the “Google app for Windows.” This powerful search application is currently housed within the experimental section of Google Labs, with no official word on its public release date. Historically, Google has focused primarily on web-based applications, with the Chrome browser being the notable exception. Other than Google Drive for Desktop, which receives regular updates, the tech giant has shown limited interest in developing PC applications. The much-anticipated Google Play Games for PC only recently emerged from beta after a three-year wait.
Despite the ease of app publication in the Microsoft Store, Google’s offerings, including Quick Share (formerly Nearby Share), have yet to make an appearance there. The Google app for Windows stands out with its feature-rich design, resembling the Google Search widget found on Android devices. It can be accessed anywhere on your Windows desktop, appearing as a floating pill that hovers above other applications.
By pressing the Alt + Space keys, users can initiate a standard Google search, locate Google Drive files, and find installed applications or local files stored on their PCs. One of the app’s most compelling features is the built-in Google Lens, which allows users to perform a “Circle to Search” action directly within Windows. Additionally, the app supports Rich Snippets and an AI mode for specific queries, enhancing the search experience.
How to install the Google app for Windows?
Currently, the Google app for Windows is exclusively available to users in the United States and is offered in English. It supports both Windows 11 and Windows 10, despite the latter nearing its end of life. To install the app, users in the U.S. should navigate to Google Search Labs and enable the toggle for the Google app for Windows. As expected, a Personal Google Account is required for access, while Google Workspace accounts are not yet supported.
Once the toggle is enabled, users can click the Download app button to initiate the download as an executable file. After double-clicking the file to install, the app will download additional components, similar to the Chrome browser. By default, users will be logged into the account used during the setup process. The installation process will request permission to access Google Drive and local files for search purposes, with options to deny these permissions if desired.
Upon installation, Google provides tutorial cards showcasing the app’s capabilities. Users will then see the familiar floating pill-shaped interface, which some may find slightly oversized. For those outside the U.S., the app is not visible in Search Labs, although utilizing a VPN to connect through a U.S. server may provide access. It’s important to note that the app remains experimental, and users may encounter limitations during this testing phase.
Testing the new Google app for Windows
Upon installing the Google app for Windows, I explored its various features and quirks. The Alt + Space shortcut functioned seamlessly, opening the app as a floating window above all other applications. Even while running multiple programs and a 4K video, the app launched without delay.
Google Windows app is not a memory hog
Surprisingly, the app utilized only 8.5MB of RAM, a stark contrast to Google Drive for Desktop, which consumed 75.4MB without any active uploads. Google Chrome, in comparison, often exceeds 500MB of RAM with just a single tab open.
Accessing the app settings via the profile picture icon allows users to select between light and dark themes, modify the default keyboard shortcut, and toggle AI mode. The Data and Privacy settings enable users to manage permissions for searching Google Drive and local files. The floating pill can be repositioned and resized, although it only adjusts horizontally. Notably, the app remembers these changes until a restart, which resets its size and position.
When using the Google app for web searches, results appear directly within the app, particularly when AI mode is activated. Disabling AI mode reverts the search results to a traditional Google search format. The Featured Snippets feature provides immediate access to factual information, streamlining the search process for users.
Google app shows installed apps on your PC
Searching for installed applications is equally efficient; simply typing the application’s name yields results comparable to Windows Search. Popular websites display their icons alongside a prompt to “open in web,” directing users to their default browser upon selection.
Google app can show local files on Windows, but it’s not perfect
Local file searches present a mixed experience. While files stored on the PC for several days appear promptly, newly downloaded files may not show up until the system is restarted. In this regard, Windows Search outperforms the Google app. However, files uploaded to Google Drive are indexed instantly, highlighting a disparity in local versus cloud file indexing.
Google Lens in Windows
The integration of Google Lens within the app is perhaps its most exciting feature. By pressing Alt + Space on any webpage and selecting the Lens icon, users can interact with content on their screens. This functionality allows for image searches and inquiries about selected content, enhancing the research process for users.
Additionally, Google Lens offers translation capabilities, enabling users to read text in images across various languages. The ability to copy text and images further enriches the app’s utility.
Google app for Windows vs PowerToys Run (now Command Palette)
Power users will recognize the PowerToys suite, with its Command Palette now featuring an updated shortcut of Win + Alt + Space. My experience with the Command Palette revealed it to be a robust tool for launching applications, executing commands, and adjusting system settings—far exceeding the minimalist approach of the Google app for Windows.
While both tools can open local files, the Command Palette excels in indexing speed. However, it lacks the AI capabilities found in the Google app, which allows for real-time queries and responses. This distinction highlights the different target audiences for each application, with the Google app catering to everyday users seeking convenience, while the Command Palette appeals to power users requiring advanced functionality.
Despite the Google app’s effectiveness, minor issues persist, such as resizing difficulties and design elements that may not align with typical Windows aesthetics. The hope remains that Google will eventually publish the app in the Microsoft Store, expanding its reach beyond the U.S. market. Meanwhile, Microsoft could enhance the Command Palette by integrating some of its powerful features into Copilot, creating a more cohesive user experience across its suite of tools.
