Microsoft updates Windows 11 with redesigned Search and WinUI 3

Microsoft is rolling out significant updates to Windows 11, including a redesigned Search experience built on the WinUI 3 framework. Currently available to Windows Insiders, the new Search interface features a streamlined single-list layout that removes the bulky preview pane to reduce visual clutter. A key addition is “Inline actions,” which allows users to execute system commands directly from the taskbar search bar. Users can type phrases such as “switch to dark mode,” “turn on Bluetooth,” or “mute” to adjust settings without opening the main Settings application.

In parallel, the third-party tool Tiny11 Builder has released an update to support Windows 11 26H2. This tool allows users to create lightweight, stripped-down Windows installation images by removing redundant components and pre-installed applications. While the standard mode preserves core functions like Windows Update and Microsoft Defender, the custom mode offers granular control over which services and features to retain. Users are advised to test these custom images in virtual machines due to the risk of system instability caused by removing protected components.