During Ignite 2024, Microsoft revealed an innovative feature called Microsoft 365 Companions. These integrations, embedded within the Windows 11 taskbar and Start menu, are designed to simplify users’ access to and organization of information with minimal effort.
One of the first integrations being tested is the File Search Companion, a new tool that provides a seamless search for files stored in Microsoft 365 apps and OneDrive directly from the taskbar. Twitter user @EpicbP initially showcased this functionality, sharing screenshots highlighting its capabilities.
This happened yesterday, but here’s the File Search Companion app that got released yesterday. (hopefully more details soon) pic.twitter.com/ACS9sfThZ2
— EpicB On X (@EpicbP) November 29, 2024
What sets the File Search Companion apart is its ability to refine searches based on file type, helping users quickly locate specific files, such as Word documents or Excel spreadsheets. The feature appears as a pinned icon on the taskbar and launches a pop-up search interface. It can locate files stored locally or synced to the cloud, including recent files, shared items, team-related documents, and files searchable by keywords or people.
While an official release date for the File Search Companion has not been confirmed, it’s expected to roll out within the coming months. If this feature is any indication of the potential of Microsoft 365 Companions, Windows 11 users have much to look forward to.