Google to launch new search app for Windows in Labs

Google has launched a new Windows search app through Search Labs that aims to reduce workflow interruptions.

Google has unveiled a new experimental Google app for Windows via its Search Labs.

Designed to streamline search on PC by bringing together web results, local files, installed apps, and screen content in one place, the software lets Windows users hit Alt + Space to invoke search immediately.

Whether users are drafting documents, gaming, or working inside another app, Google hopes this software will significantly reduce disruption in workflow.

The company added that some of the integrated features include Google Lens – which allows selecting text or images on the screen to translate, search, or glean information – and an AI Mode that provides deeper AI-powered responses complete with follow-up questions and relevant links.

The company describes the app as especially helpful “to help you find what you need, faster”.

This comes after Google said it may also be preparing a more fundamental shift by making AI Mode the default search interface.

Lead product manager Logan Kilpatrick recently responded on X to a user’s question about whether AI Mode would become the default search experience, saying simply: “Soon.”

Meanwhile, Robby Stein, Google’s VP of Product for Search, urged caution and clarified: “Wouldn’t read too much into this. we’re focusing on making it easy to access AI Mode for those who want it.”

Currently, AI Mode combines outputs from Google’s Gemini AI and real-time web search to deliver direct answers, rather than just lists of links.

The software already has its own dedicated homepage at google.com/ai, hinting at a future where it could be the primary interface for many users.

This potential default switch could dramatically change how we find information online and how websites rely on Google for traffic.

AI Overviews, which answer questions within Search without sending users elsewhere, have already shown mixed accuracy and raised concerns among publishers about declining click-through rates as search evolves.