Microsoft is improving the Smart Search powered by Bing in Windows 8.1 by adding natural-language search. Users can write out queries as sentences or thoughts, rather than try to puzzle out the correct search term. Smart Search allows you to swipe or type from the start screen to find what you need. From now on, it will also showcase results based on natural language understanding. For instance, how do you take a screenshot or how do set-up a printer? Now when you search for "install a printer", Smart Search will show you that the function resides within "Device Settings" so you can take action with a simple click.

In addition, Microsoft has improved common spelling mistakes in the Smart Search bar and to showcase more apps that might be relevant to a search.

Microsoft has upgraded its search capabilities, improving the Bing search engine on the Web. A year ago, Microsoft detailed how Bing could be used as an assistant, the precursor to the natural-language capabilities found within Cortana, the new digital assistant Microsoft made the centerpiece of Windows Phone 8.1. Cortana features a combination of machine learning and some preprogrammed responses to give the illusion of an artificial intelligence within your Windows Phone.

A natural step beyond would also be Microsoft to eventually bring Cortana to Windows.