Serving web search results from a generic (formerly local only) search box serves multiple strategic initiatives: 1. Gives a place to plug and train the 1P sea

Serving web search results from a generic (formerly local only) search box serves multiple strategic initiatives: 1. Gives a place to plug and train the 1P search engine (Bing) or a place to sell access to a search provider (Apple wrt Google) 2. Pretty easy but flashy feature that doesn’t require any real creativity or delivery risks but is flashy enough to get people promoted. 3. Probably user research shows that computer novices are confused by the difference between a file and web search box. Don’t underestimate the confluence of these three things: it’s easy to justify as good for the (highly technically inexperienced) user, good for the business, and a solid path to a title bump for all involved.