Microsoft is implementing changes to the search functionality in Windows 11 for users within the European Economic Area (EEA), aligning with the stipulations of the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). This modification aims to enhance user experience by distinctly separating local search results from web-based ones. Traditionally, the Start menu search amalgamated results from both local devices and the internet, utilizing Bing as the search engine. However, the latest updates will introduce a clearer division between these two categories.
According to reports from MSPowerUser, this adjustment is evident in the new Windows 11 Insider Preview Build, specifically build number 27764. A Windows Insider user shared a screenshot showcasing the revamped user interface, which now features two distinct sections within the search window: one labeled “Windows” for local results and another titled “Web search from Bing” for online queries. This change is particularly notable for users who have set their Windows 11 language to German.
Windows 11’s search shake-up after a nudge from the EU
In addition to enhancing user experience, this separation of search results may also reflect Microsoft’s broader ambitions, particularly in relation to competing with Google. While the alteration may slightly disrupt Microsoft’s strategic goals, it ultimately prioritizes user choice and clarity.
A welcome tidy-up (but only in Europe)
The selective rollout of this update to the EEA indicates that Microsoft may be hesitant to implement similar changes globally, likely due to concerns over diminishing the traffic Bing receives from Windows 11 users outside of Europe. For users, this refinement is a welcome development, especially for those who have found the previous search experience cluttered and inconsistent.
The primary issue with the former setup was its tendency to merge local and web results, which could detract from the user experience. When searching for a file or application on a device, encountering a blend of local content and often irrelevant web suggestions could be more distracting than beneficial. By establishing a clearer distinction between on-device and online results, this update ensures that Windows Search fulfills its primary function: helping users locate what they need on their PCs without unnecessary distractions from web services.
