How to install Google’s new desktop app for Windows 11 with Gemini AI and file search integration

• Google is rolling out a desktop app for Windows 11 with Gemini AI integration.
• You can install it via a simple installer from Google’s official download page.
• A shortcut (Alt + Space) opens a floating search box for instant access.
• Features include AI Mode, Google Lens, cloud and local file search, and screen sharing.

On Windows 11, you can now install the Google app to access Gemini with added capabilities such as screen sharing, Google Lens integration, and both local and cloud file search. However, if you prefer to keep chatbot AI out of your desktop experience, you can skip installing it on your computer.

After testing began in September, the “Google app for desktop” is now rolling out globally to Windows users in English. It’s designed to bring the best of Google Search right to your desktop, offering a faster, more integrated way to find information without opening a browser first.

This also means you won’t need to install Gemini as a web app on your computer to access the chatbot from your desktop.

In this guide, I’ll outline the easy steps to install and get started with the app on Windows 11

• Install the Google app on Windows 11
• Get started with Gemini in the Google app

Install the Google app on Windows 11

To install the Google app on Windows 11, follow these steps:

1. Open the Google app official page.

2. Click the Download app button.

   

3. Save the installer on your computer.

4. Double-click the GoogleAppInstaller.exe file to launch the installer.

5. (Optional) Turn on the Drive toggle switch to allow Google to access your cloud files for search.

6. (Optional) Turn on the Local files toggle switch to allow Google to access your local files for search.

   

7. Click the Done button.

Once you complete the steps, the app will be installed on your Windows 11 device.

Get started with Gemini in the Google app

One of the key highlights is the “Alt + Space” keyboard shortcut, which opens a floating search box. From here, you can search the web, Google Drive files, local documents, and even installed apps. This creates an experience that closely mirrors macOS Spotlight, but with deeper integration into Google services.

The search experience also includes AI Mode, which is powered by Gemini. This allows users to go beyond traditional search by invoking Google Lens for visual queries, translating text or images, and even getting homework assistance or contextual explanations directly from the desktop interface.

Another standout feature is screen sharing, which lets you share your entire screen or a specific window to ask contextual questions.

The results appear in a floating, interactive panel where you can continue refining prompts and asking follow-up questions without breaking workflow. 

The interface is designed to feel consistent with Google’s mobile search experience, making it familiar for existing users.

Final thoughts 

Google positions this app as an extension of its mobile ecosystem, bringing the same experience users already rely on their phones directly to the desktop. 

While there is no confirmed release for macOS yet, the Gemini team is reportedly exploring it. Traditionally, Google has focused on browser-based tools and Progressive Web Apps, making this desktop release notable alongside existing utilities like Google Drive for desktop, Quick Share, Google Play Games, and Chrome.

The app is now available for Windows 11 (and Windows 10) in English, and it no longer requires access through Google Labs.