Microsoft has finally brought back a feature that many Windows users have been clamoring for: the ability to turn off web search results in the Windows 11 search bar.
In the latest Insider Experimental build (26300.8697), Microsoft has introduced an option to toggle off web search results, giving users more control over their search experience. This change aims to improve performance and reduce clutter in the search panel.
When turned on, web search results are still visible, but turning them off makes the search bar cleaner and faster. Users can also access this feature through the Windows Search Privacy & security settings page or by using the Gear icon on the top right of the Windows Search panel.
According to reports, this change is part of a broader effort to give users more control over their Windows experience. Microsoft has been softening account and service lock-in across products, and removing Bing from Windows Search follows this pattern.
To enable this feature, users need to download a third-party tool called ViveTool and run a specific command in the Command Prompt. The feature is still experimental and may vary between systems.
This change is a welcome upgrade for many Windows users, but Microsoft should also consider simplifying the search UI itself to make it feel less crowded. Nevertheless, the improved performance and reduced clutter make this update a step in the right direction for Windows 11 Search.
Source: https://www.windowslatest.com/2026/06/21/tested-microsoft-just-debloated-windows-11-search-without-bing-and-its-crazy-fast