Microsoft has begun testing a set of search upgrades and in-game shortcuts for Windows 11 through its Windows Insider program, giving participants an early look at changes that could reach general users later. The new Xbox mode shortcuts are aimed at people who would rather not leave gaming mode just to adjust system settings.
According to Microsoft's blog post on the changes, the Xbox shortcuts let users manage Bluetooth, WiFi, and power settings without exiting gaming mode. The company did not say when or whether the features would ship to all Windows 11 users. Insiders can try them now through two builds.
The search changes are broader. Users can filter results by files, actions, or web results, and the search box can carry out tasks such as changing screen brightness or volume. The same box can also act on a connected phone, including placing calls, according to the source article.
Search results now carry more context. A file result can show when the file was last modified and who authored it, while other queries can surface charts for stock prices and weather forecasts. Microsoft has also added inline thumbs-up and thumbs-down icons that users can click to train Windows 11 search and help it improve over time.
The features are available in Beta Build 26220.9836 and Experimental Build 26340.9843, both of which are open to Windows Insiders now. Microsoft pointed readers to its blog post for the complete list of changes.
The update lands in a Windows 11 release that Microsoft has been refining through its Insider channels, where the company tests features with users before wider distribution. For US users in particular, the phone-related actions and the search filters could change how quickly common tasks are handled from the desktop. The stock and weather charts in results also give US users more information without opening a separate app.
The source article did not include a release timeline for the features beyond their availability to Insiders, and Microsoft's blog post, as described, covers the full list of changes.
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