How to Turn Off Search Highlights on Windows 11

Windows 11 adds new features all the time, but not every update is for everyone. One thing you might have noticed is the “Search Highlights” feature—those little pictures and trending searches that pop up when you click the search box. They’re meant to make searching more helpful, but honestly, they can be distracting or feel unnecessary.

If you want your search bar clean and focused, here’s how to turn off Search Highlights on Windows 11.

What Are Search Highlights?

Before we jump in, let’s make it clear: Search Highlights show news, trending topics, and sometimes fun facts or holidays when you open the search panel on Windows 11. It’s Microsoft’s way of keeping you “in the loop.” But if you just want to find your apps or files, you probably don’t need all that extra noise.

How to Disable Search Highlights

Turning off this feature is quick. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Open Settings
   Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
2. Go to Privacy & Security
   In the sidebar, click Privacy & security.
3. Find Search Permissions
   Scroll down and select Search permissions under the Windows permissions section.
4. Turn Off Search Highlights
   Scroll until you see the More settings section.
   Find Show search highlights and toggle it off.

That’s it. The extra images and suggestions will disappear, leaving you with a simpler, less cluttered search box.

Alternative Way (From the Taskbar)

You can also turn off Search Highlights right from the taskbar:

1. Right-click the Taskbar
   Right-click an empty area on the taskbar.
2. Click Search
   In the menu, hover over Search.
3. Disable Search Highlights
   Click Show search highlights to uncheck it.

You don’t even need to open Settings for this method.

Why Turn Off Search Highlights?

• Faster searching: Less visual clutter means you find what you need faster.
• Privacy: Reduces the chance of seeing trending searches or news you don’t care about.
• Clean look: Keeps your desktop experience tidy and distraction-free.

Final Thoughts

Search Highlights aren’t for everyone. If you prefer a straightforward search experience, turning them off only takes a minute. Want more Windows 11 tips? Check out our other guides or drop your questions in the comments.

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!