Microsoft has delivered an update to the Bing-powered Smart Search feature in Windows 8.1, introducing natural language queries to the operating system, Digital Spy said.

The update will enable users to access difficult-to-reach settings on their PCs by inputting searches such as "my screen is too bright".

Inputting queries such "deleting an app" or "adding a game pad" will take users directly to the relevant settings menu, eliminating the need to trawl through sub-categories.

"Based on the most common tasks people perform on Windows 8, we are taking steps to allow Smart Search to showcase results based on natural language understanding," said the Bing team in a blog post.

"Now when I search for 'install a printer', Smart Search will show me that the function resides within 'Device Settings' so I can take action with a simple click."

It was recently reported that Microsoft is planning to reintroduce the Start menu to Windows via a major update this summer.