Unable to Search for Certain System Apps using the New Spotlight

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Level 1

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Unable to Search for Certain System Apps using the New Spotlight

Since updating to the new version of macOS, I’ve noticed that Spotlight search doesn’t seem to work properly for certain built-in system apps. For example, when I try to search for apps like [insert specific apps, e.g., “System Settings,” “Finder,” or “Activity Monitor”], they no longer appear in the Spotlight results.

I’ve already checked my Spotlight settings under System Settings > Spotlight to make sure "app" from "Result from System" is enabled, but the issue persists. Restarting my Mac also didn’t resolve it.

[Edited by Moderator]

MacBook Pro 14″, macOS 26.0

Posted on Sep 20, 2025 9:54 PM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Barney-15E

Level 10

121,376 points

Sep 21, 2025 4:05 AM in response to 威260

The Spotlight Index gets rebuilt when you upgrade, and sometimes it needs a kickstart. As already noted, a Restart may resolve the problem. If it doesn't, try rebuilding the Spotlight Index. Rebuild the Spotlight index on your Mac - Apple Support

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Answer 2

Owl-53

Level 10

100,579 points

Sep 21, 2025 2:51 AM in response to 威260

Sorry I can not reproduce this issue running M4 Mac Mini with Tahoe macOS 26 ( 25A354 )

Restart in Safe Mode. This will perform a Disk Repair, clear cache files and only load Apple Software, extensions and fonts. The boot up will be slow and can take some time - Normal.

Safe Mode will also eliminate Third Party Software, extensions and drivers from loading. It will only load the Minimum amount of Core Apple Processes to allow the the computer to function at a reduced Level of Performance

Does the issue present in this mode ?

Sometimes a Safe Boot followed by a Normal Boot will just put things right.

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