Microsoft is working on a new search UI for Windows 10

Microsoft is working on a new, dedicated search UI that's separate from Cortana in the latest insider builds of Windows 10.

In the latest version of Windows 10, searching for files, documents, the web, and apps is handled via the Cortana UI, which to many is confusing or unnecessary. More often than not, people who are searching for things on their device don't want or need to interact with Microsoft's virtual assistant, and now it appears the company is working on a new search UI to combat this.

In the latest Redstone 4 Insider Preview builds, a new, hidden search UI can be enabled via a simple registry edit that brings a new "immersive" search experience to the desktop. With the registry edit enabled, when the user has the Cortana icon collapsed, clicking it will bring up a search UI that floats in the middle of the user's display, similar to how it works on the latest version of macOS Sierra.

This UI also pops up by hitting the Start button and immediately typing, as many users are accustomed to. Right now, the new search UI's implementation within the OS is a little rough, and in some usage scenarios doesn't make sense. This is likely because we're only seeing one part of a bigger picture. Recent rumors suggest Microsoft is planning to move Cortana into the System Tray, which would give this new search UI a reason for existing.

Users running build 17040 can try out this new search UI via the following registry edit (via Inside Windows Group Chat):

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