Microsoft has spent months testing a cleaner version of Windows Search. The update is now reaching regular Windows 11 PCs.
The redesigned experience arrives in the August 2026 optional update KB5120998 for Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2. It moves systems to builds 26100.9278 and 26200.9278. Some features turn on gradually.
These changes first showed up for Windows Insiders in the Experimental channel back in July.
How to Keep Bing Out of Windows Search
The main change sits under Settings > Privacy & security > Search. Two toggles appear there. One controls web results. The other handles Microsoft Store suggestions.
Switch off web results and Bing suggestions disappear from Search. Turn both off and Search stays focused on what’s already on the PC. Results come back faster too. The system no longer waits on an online Bing request before showing anything.
Cleaner Search Home Screen and Better Local Results
The Search home screen looks different. Microsoft stripped out most of the old Bing clutter. Trending searches and promotional content are gone.
Results now label their source clearly. You’ll see whether something is an app, a file, a setting, a web result, or a Microsoft Store item.
Typo handling got better. Local results also get higher priority than they used to.
Gradual Rollout and Manual Activation
Installing KB5120998 does not guarantee the new Search appears right away. Microsoft uses its Controlled Feature Rollout system. The needed pieces can already sit on the PC while the feature stays switched off for some users.
Anyone who prefers not to wait can force the change with ViVeTool. Everyone else can simply leave it alone until Microsoft turns it on.
Windows Search no longer needs a web request just to find Calculator, Settings, or a file already on the machine. The option to shut Bing out finally brings it closer to how a desktop search tool should work.