Microsoft is building a new launcher app to replace the Run command (Windows + R shortcut) on Windows 10 that looks a lot like the Spotlight feature on Apple’s operating system.
The new launcher is expected to feature options to instantly search for apps and files across the system and supported plugins, since Microsoft will also allow developers to plug into the experience.
In addition, it’ll also include support the use different search engines, which is quite different from the Start menu that uses Bing search and Microsoft Edge to open results exclusively.
Of course, similar to the current Run experience, the new app will include support to quick launch Command Prompt, PowerShell, Registry, and many other shortcuts.
The first preview of the launcher is planned to arrive in May 2020. Initially, it’ll only support some basic search functionalities, but in future updates, Microsoft plans to make the “Windows + R” replacement more powerful with more features to make power users more productive.
The app will be included as part of the PowerToys bundle, and the company is actively searching for a name.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows expert and the Editor-in-Chief who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He is also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 12 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows, software, and related technologies, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me.