Over the past few years, I've highlighted tons of Windows concepts designed by Windows enthusiasts, including "Windows 12.2" and more. But what if Microsoft rebuilt File Explorer from the ground up for Windows 12?

YouTuber and concept designer Abdi (aka AR 4789) shared an intriguing Windows 12 design with a bias on the File Explorer. As expected, the design gives the File Explorer a modern look, which aligns with Microsoft's Fluent design language (via Neowin).

Windows remains the most popular desktop OS, even if Microsoft has struggled to get users to upgrade to Windows 11 before pulling the plug on Windows 10. Regardless, it's still fun to imagine what might come next with Windows "12" (or whatever it'll be called), and this is a great start.

Hardware requirements for Windows 11 were a sore point (in fact, they're becoming stricter, making some requirements like TPM non-negotiable), but there's no limit to what Microsoft could do with Windows' user interface. Abdi makes some clever suggestions for File Explorer that I'd love to see added in an official capacity.

The File Explorer icon on the Taskbar remains pretty much the same, but it would add new features like Collectzone, which, as Abdi highlights, allows users to drag and drop items that belong to the same category into a collection, which can also be pinned on the navigation pane.

This concept design also adds Widgets to the File Explorer that highlight your content and collections across the app, alongside showing how much storage your files and folders have taken up on your drives.

File Explorer itself would also have a consistent dark theme, which is arguably better than Microsoft's current setup in Windows 11 that Zac Bowden describes as "embarrassingly incomplete with common UI interfaces still brightly colored when dark mode is enabled."

Windows 12's imaginary File Explorer app also features a redesigned Properties UI and a file restoration experience, with photos getting a glow-up with a new feature called Filmstrip view, which is essentially a carousel that lets users jump between images.

Of course, Generative AI is in there, too. An AI-powered search experience would help users find content by understanding their intent and context, rather than just matching file names. You could also assign your folders and icons different colors for better categorization and identification.

💬 Could Microsoft give File Explorer the upgrade it deserves?

As always, this is just a concept design that could represent (even in part) some of Microsoft's plans to revamp its File Explorer app in Windows in the future.

Elsewhere, a false report indicated that Microsoft was getting ready to ship Windows 12 later this year. While it has since been established that this isn't the case and Microsoft's Windows roadmap will primarily focus on addressing Windows 11's pain points and reevaluating its AI strategy, it's difficult to disassociate the fact that Abdi's concept would be a great addition to the Windows ecosystem.

To be honest, I'm even adding it to my Windows 12 wishlist. I want to see it happen.

If Microsoft built this AI-powered File Explorer for Windows 12, how would you feel? Share your thoughts with me in the comments.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Microsoft has admittedly struggled to attract users to Windows 11 despite launching the operating system over 4 years ago. This can be predominantly attributed to its stringent system hardware requirements and for some, flawed design elements.

As you may know, the software giant is poised to pull the plug on Windows 10, next week, in October 14, 2025. As a result, users are upgrading to Windows 11 while some are defaulting to Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for an additional year of support for Windows 10 after its end-of-life.

It's worth noting that Microsoft made its ESU program free for users in the European Economic Area. Users in this region won't need to sync their PC settings to the cloud via a Microsoft account to access the extended security updates.

Elsewhere, the best alternative for Windows 11's File Explorer app, Files App just got a neat update in preview, bumping it to v4.0.12. The update ships with noteworthy additions including a new "Discovering" Phase and improved "Cancel" button placement in the Status Center.

For context, the new Discovering Phase notifies the users through the Status Center when it's actively looking for items for a file operation. Previous versions of the app didn't provide visual feedback, making it difficult for users to know what's going on and even suggested that the file operation was stuck.

The Cancel file operation button in the Status Center has been moved to a menu flyout to enhance clarity, creating an intuitive user experience.

Here's everything you need to know about the update, including new features and fixes:

Files v4.0.12: What's new

Added New ‘Discovering’ Phase to Status Center

The Status Center now indicates when it’s actively discovering items for a file operation. Previously, this phase lacked visual feedback, making it look like the file operation was stuck.

Improved ‘Cancel’ Button Placement in Status Center

We’ve relocated the ‘Cancel’ file operation button in the Status Center to a menu flyout, improving clarity and making the interface more intuitive.

Files v4.0.12: Fixes

Fixes

• Fixed an issue where release notes were mirrored in RTL.
• Fixed an issue where the home button didn’t work when viewing tags.
• Fixed an issue with opening items from search results in Columns View.
• Fixed an issue with opening certain network locations.
• Fixed an issue where pinned folder icons didn’t load until restarting Files.

Despite being released over 4 years ago, Windows 11 has struggled to gain traction and broad adoption by users compared to its predecessor, Windows 10. However, in recent months, Windows 11 became the most dominant desktop operating system with 49.08% of the market share, surpassing Windows 10's 45.53%.

In the past, users have expressed their preference for Windows 10, citing Windows 11's flawed design elements and stringent hardware requirements as the main reasons preventing them from upgrading to the operating system.

For any avid Windows user, the File Explorer app is a critical part of the OS, which you'd probably spend most of your time on (outside of a web browser). Admittedly, Microsoft has been making improvements and adding nifty features to the app, including AI actions, which allow users to right-click a file and perform quick actions, such as blurring a background or performing a Bing Visual Search.

While Windows 11's File Explorer gets the job done, some might argue that there are better third-party alternatives available, like the 'Files' app, which recently got a major update, bumping it to version 4.0.

The update ships with a plethora of new features, including an updated icon, which introduces a refreshed logo design with richer colors to complement Fluent-designed apps from Microsoft. Here's everything you need to know about the update, including new features and fixes:

Files v4: Whats new

Updated icon

Files v4.0 introduces a refreshed logo design with richer color, ensuring it feels right at home with other Fluent designed apps from Microsoft.

Omnibar

The Omnibar is a major design update in Files v4.0, replacing the traditional Address Bar with a brand new control that merges the path bar and search box into a single, intuitive interface. You can switch between navigation and search modes by clicking the mode buttons or by using their dedicated keyboard shortcuts.

A powerful Command Palette mode provides access to advanced commands and actions.

Dual Pane

Dual Pane mode lets you view and manage two folders side-by-side, perfect for dragging files between locations without switching tabs. We made a number of enhancements to Dual Pane mode to improve your experience.

• You can now toggle Dual Pane mode by pressing Ctrl+Shift+S.
• We added a dedicated settings section for Dual Pane under Settings → Layout → Dual Pane.
• New panes now open with the same path you’re currently viewing.
• The “Add pane” option is now labeled “Split pane”.

Filtering and search

To reduce confusion between filtering and search, we’ve separated them into two features. Search leverages the Windows Search index for comprehensive queries across all indexed locations. Filter refines the items you see within the current folder.

Search is available by pressing Ctrl+F or by clicking the search icon in the Omnibar.

The filter header can be activated via the toolbar button or the Ctrl+Shift+F shortcut. It filters items in the open directory without relying on the index, keeping you in context and displaying results in real time.

Developer tools and git

You can now remap the Open IDE command to any editor under Settings → Developer tools, giving you flexibility to integrate your preferred coding environment.

When you drop a GitHub URL into Files, you’ll be prompted to clone it. Clone progress is displayed in the Status Center.

Cloud drives

• Files now supports MagentaCLOUD, Sync, and OX Drive integration, expanding your options for cloud storage access directly in the app. The full list of available cloud drives can be viewed on our cloud drive documentation.
• OneDrive storage usage is now displayed in the Properties window on Windows 11.

Compare hashes

The Hashes tab in Properties has a new Compare a file option that lets you quickly verify a file’s hash against a known value or another file.

File signatures

A new Signatures tab in Properties shows digital signatures so you can verify a file’s authenticity at a glance.

Columns View

Columns View now automatically adjusts each column’s width to fit its file names. You can also drag the dividers to resize columns or double-click a divider to snap it back to the optimal width.

Status Center

• You can now control when the Status Center icon is visible under Settings → Appearance → Toolbars → Status Center. By default, the icon is always visible, but you can configure it to appear only when tasks are in progress.
• Notification badges clear automatically when you open the Status Center.
• Font installation progress is now displayed in the Status Center.

Actions settings page

The Actions settings page now adapts to smaller window sizes, and we added a search box so you can quickly filter commands.

Archives

• The 7-Zip dependency has been updated to version 25.01.
• New archives now default to UTF-8 encoding.
• When extracting archives, Files auto-detects the encoding. You can still choose a different format if needed.

Customizable file size units

You can now choose whether file size units are shown in binary units (MiB) or decimal units (MB). This setting can be adjusted from Settings → Files & folders → Size format.

Sidebar

• The settings button has been relocated from the address bar to the left-hand sidebar.
• Right clicking the settings button displays an option to open the raw JSON file.
• If you hide all the sidebar sections, you’ll now see helpful placeholder content.

Context menu

• Access keys are now displayed in the right-click context menu when holding down the ‘alt’ key.
• We added support for turning off the ‘Open in Terminal’ option in the right click context menu. This setting can be accessed from Settings → General → Context menu options .

Quick access to diagnostics

You can now open the log file and folder with keyboard shortcuts:

• To open the log file, press Ctrl+.
• To open the log folder, press Ctrl+Shift+.

Localization

We’ve expanded our language support to now include Armenian, broadening accessibility for global users. Our localizations are maintained by our dedicated community members.

Other highlights

• You can now browse all supported image formats when selecting a background in Settings.
• You can now browse all supported icon file formats when selecting an icon in Properties.
• We’ve replaced the Release Notes dialog with a dedicated tab that opens automatically after updating Files. This makes it easier to explore what’s new and improved in each release.
• We’ve improved the performance of the Quick Access widget on the Home Page.
• The review prompt in the Store version of Files will now appear only once per user, and only after 30 sessions. Additionally, the prompt no longer blocks user input and is designed to be less disruptive.
• Experimental support for long file paths allows you to work with directories and filenames that exceed traditional Windows limits, opening up more possibilities for complex projects.

Files v4.0: Fixes

Updates and release notes

• Fixed an issue where an error dialog would sometimes appear after updating Files.
• Fixed a crash that would sometimes occur during updates.
• Fixed an issue where the WebView process for the Release Notes page would remain open in the background.
• Fixed an issue where the Release Notes page sometimes used the wrong theme.

Settings dialog

• Fixed an issue where the Windows version was copied incorrectly.
• Fixed an issue where the icon for “developer tools” didn’t display properly on Windows 10.

Sorting and grouping

• Fixed sorting issues with files containing #-# numbering.
• Fixed an issue where name sorting was case-sensitive.
• Fixed misaligned group header text.

Shortcuts and commands

• Fixed an issue where the “Run with PowerShell” action didn’t pass the working directory.
• Fixed an issue where the delete key didn’t work after removing an item from the selection.
• Fixed an issue preventing file selection via keyboard.
• Fixed an issue where the Home key didn’t move focus while renaming items.

Navigation and layout

• Fixed an issue where the Home Page didn’t properly refresh.
• Fixed an issue where adaptive layout removed focus from the active pane.
• Fixed an issue where the inactive pane would steal focus during file changes.
• Fixed an issue where switching layouts incorrectly focused the right-hand pane.
• Fixed an issue where the ‘layout’ icon didn’t match the selected layout.
• Fixed RTL support (please note that some areas are still missing support).
• Fixed an issue where the Cleanup and Format options were incorrectly displayed for Cloud Drives.
• Fixed an issue where the Status Center didn’t display file-operation sizes.
• Fixed an issue with deleting items that didn’t fit in Recycle Bin.
• Fixed an issue preventing folders ending in .url from opening properly.
• Fixed errors that sometimes occurred with shortcuts in Git repositories.
• Fixed a crash that would occur when using an invalid background image.
• Fixed an issue where text in the permissions page wrapped incorrectly.
• Fixed an issue where the sidebar flickered when resizing the properties window.
• Fixed an issue where installing multiple instances of Files (e.g. Files - Preview) would unpin Recycle Bin from the sidebar.
• Fixed an issue with clearing selection via touch.

Toolbar

• Fixed an issue where toolbar buttons sometimes displayed the wrong icon state.
• Fixed an issue where the extract button was sometimes missing from the toolbar.
• Fixed the menu label for overflow items in the toolbar.

Microsoft unveiled a "new generation of Windows experiences" earlier this month. The tech giant announced new features for Copilot+ PCs, the Photos app, Paint, Snipping Tool, and Windows 11.

Only a couple of weeks after being announced, several of the features are already in testing among Windows Insiders. Select users in the Dev Channel and Beta Channel can now try AI actions in File Explorer and several other features.

The latest Dev Channel update, which brings systems to Build 26200.5603, also has a new visual experience for widgets. The improvements should make it easier to organize and personalize the widgets panel.

Those in the Beta Channel can test the same features by upgrading to Build 26120.4151.

The features are rolling out gradually, even among Insiders. If you want to enable AI actions in File Explorer manually, I explain how to do so below.

Here are the change logs for the latest Insider builds, as outlined by Microsoft.

Windows 11 Build 26200.5603 & Build 26120.4151: New features

Introducing AI actions in File Explorer

With AI actions in File Explorer, you can interact more deeply with your files by right-clicking to quickly take actions like editing images or summarizing documents. Like with Click to Do, AI actions in File Explorer allow you to stay in your flow while leveraging the power of AI to take advantage of editing tools in apps or Copilot functionality without having to open your file. AI actions in File Explorer are easily accessible – to try out AI actions in File Explorer, just right-click on a file and you will see a new AI actions entry on the content menu that allows you to choose from available options for your file.

Today, you can try one of four image actions for seamless editing or web searches with images:

• Bing Visual Search: Allows you to search the web using an image instead of text. Find similar images and products, get details about sites using the image, and identify landmarks, plants, and famous faces. From searching what you see on your screen, to shopping your preferred style, getting help with that homework problem, or translating text, getting answers is more intuitive than ever.
• Blur Background: Opens the Photos app which automatically finds the background in the photo, and with a single click, instantly highlights your subject and blurs out the background. You can also customize the effect by adjusting the Blur Intensity or use the Brush Tool to modify the areas being blurred.
• Erase Objects: With Photos by selecting or highlighting an unwanted element in your photo and Generative Erase makes it disappear.  It allows you to fix and remove distractions from your photos.
• Remove Background: With Paint allows you to alter any image automatically in just one click leaving a smooth cutout of the subject. Background removal can detect the subject from the entire canvas or using the selection tool.

These four image actions currently support these file types: .jpg, .jpeg, and .png.

Over the course of the coming weeks, we will begin to roll out new AI actions for Microsoft 365 files:

• Summarize: With Copilot you can generate summaries of various document types stored on OneDrive and SharePoint without the need to open them individually. Find the information you need quickly! Supported file types: .docx, .doc, .pptx, .ppt, .xlsx, .xls, .pdf, .rtf, .txt, .loop.
• Create an FAQ: Copilot can help you turn your OneDrive files into a neatly formatted, AI-generated Q&A list. Whether you’re building internal knowledge bases, prepping for meetings, or crafting quick-start guides, “Create an FAQ” distills complex information into clear, shareable FAQs in seconds. Supported file types: xlsx, .ppt, .pptx, .doc, .docx, .pdf, .txt, .rtf, .aspx, .htm, and .html.

To see AI actions for Microsoft 365 files, you must be:

• For Summarize, you need to be Microsoft 365 subscriber with a Copilot subscription (Microsoft account and Microsoft Entra ID supported).
• For Create an FAQ, you need to be a commercial Microsoft 365 subscriber with a Copilot subscription (Microsoft Entra ID supported). Consumer support with a Microsoft account is coming later.
• Enrolled in the Microsoft 365 Insider Program. Your PC will need to be part of the Beta Channel update channel. Use these instructions to get setup today: Become a Microsoft 365 Insider on Windows.

Let us know what you think of these new AI actions in File Explorer!

Introducing Advanced Settings

Advanced settings are now available via Settings > System > Advanced with some new features. The Advanced page is a redesign of the For Developers page, intending to make its settings easier to find for a broader audience. With the redesign of this page, we’ve added additional settings: Enable long paths, Virtual workspaces, and File Explorer + version control.

Enable long paths allows you to remove MAX_PATH limitations from common Win32 file and directory functions. Virtual workspaces allow you to enable/disable virtual environments such as Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox, and more. File Explorer + version control provides the ability to display Git information directly inside File Explorer. Simply select your repository folder and File Explorer will display information such as your branch, diff count, last commit message, and more.

Windows 11 Build 26200.5603 & Build 26120.4151: Changes and Improvements

Taskbar & System Tray

• In addition to the new grouping of the Accessibility flyout in quick settings, we are adding text descriptions for the assistive technologies like Narrator, Voice access, etc. for easy identification and learning by the users.

Search on the Taskbar

We are beginning to roll out some improvements for the Windows search box on your taskbar:

• When showing search results, we will provide a notice that your search results may be incomplete if Windows is still indexing your PC with a link to check your indexing status. You can dismiss this notice.
• We are also providing a status for files and folders on your PC so you can easily see if a file or folder is available when online (cloud) or available on your device.

Voice access

• We have temporarily disabled Chinese support in voice access to address some issues. We plan to begin rolling this change out again in a future flight soon.

Widgets

We’re trying out a new visual experience for the widgets board, with a more organized, personalized, and engaging feed. In addition, we are introducing Copilot-curated stories into the feed. These make it easy to get a multifaceted view on a single topic, connecting summaries, videos, and images from trusted MSN premium publishers. Some features, such as pinning and hiding, are still under development. Explore this experience and please share your feedback as we’ll continue to evolve the experience.

You can choose to return to the previous widgets board experience, by changing the ‘Copilot Discover (Preview)’ toggle in the Personalize MSN settings dialog (shown below).

Power & Battery

• We’re introducing User Interaction-Aware CPU Power Management, an OS-level enhancement that helps reduce power consumption and extend your battery life. After a period of inactivity on your PC, Windows now conserve power by automatically applying efficient power management policies. This happens seamlessly to save energy while you’re inactive, with full performance instantly restored the moment you get back to it. It’s another way we’re working to make your Windows experience both responsive and energy-efficient!
  • Please note: Actual savings depend on device segment, power mode and whether you’re plugged in or running on battery, according to manufacturer-defined Processor Power Management (PPM) settings.

Windows Share

• In the Windows share window, as part of the ability to quickly edit and enhance images while sharing, we have adjusted the UI so that now you can now select their compression scale from High, Medium, or Low Quality, instead of choosing from an entire scale ranging from 0-100.

Windows Backup

• We’re trying out different variations of the landing page when you launch the Windows Backup app.

Snipping Tool

• [ADDED] Last month, we announced Snipping Tool’s new text extractor feature — designed to minimize the number of steps it takes to copy text to your clipboard without having to take a screenshot of your screen. With this Windows update, we’re making it easier to jump directly into text extractor via Win + Shift + T. You can learn more about using text extractor here. You should be on Snipping Tool version 11.2503.29.0 or higher as well.

Settings

We are rolling out some small changes for your setting your browser defaults in Windows 11 via Settings > Apps > Default apps:

1. For Add new link/file types of ‘Set Default’ button, we have added additional types for the “Set Default” button. You can now set more types.
2. For one-click button of PDF for browser sets, we have added a new button for making your default browser also the default app for PDF files.

How to enable Windows 11 features

Microsoft often rolls out new features gradually. You can, however, enable many features by force.

To try AI Actions in File Explorer, you need to join the Windows Insider Program. Then, enroll your PC in the Dev or Beta Channel.

You then need to download ViVeTool and use the id "54792954,55345819" to enable the feature. X user phantomofearth highlighted the ID needed to enable the feature. They also shared a screenshot of AI Actions in File Explorer.

You need to be on the latest Dev or Beta build of Windows 11 to enable AI Actions in File Explorer.

Generally speaking, I recommend waiting until a feature rolls out to your system, especially if it's a minor addition. But if you're eager to test the latest features in Windows 11, there's a way to do so.

Windows 11's File Explorer is one of the most important apps on a PC. It's not flashy, but it's an essential tool for managing everything from documents to program files. While Microsoft has improved File Explorer over the years, the app still lacks some functionality seen in third-party apps. Additionally, there are several features in other Microsoft apps that would greatly improve File Explorer that have not made the jump. A program called Explorer Tab Utility is here to close that gap a bit by adding functionality to File Explorer. You can download the program for free from the Explorer Tab Utility GitHub page (there are several ways to support the project financially if you'd like to help the developer).

Explorer Tab Utility can do things like force File Explorer windows to open as tabs. The app also supports duplicating a current tab, custom path navigation, and reopening closed tabs with a keyboard shortcut. The last of those sparked my interest in the program, since I assumed File Explorer already supported that feature. I was surprised to realize File Explorer lacked that functionality and have already used the CTRL+SHIFT+T shortcut to reopen tabs several times today while testing Explorer Tab Utility.

RELATED: Windows dark mode has been embarrassingly incomplete for nearly a decade

I hope the utility inspires Microsoft to add features to File Explorer. Shortcuts like reopening a tab by pressing CTRL+SHIFT+T feel natural on Windows 11 since Microsoft Edge already supports that shortcut. I won't hold my breath, however. Despite File Explorer having a dark mode for years, an addition that did not occur until 2018, several Windows UI elements related to managing files do not. Tabs weren't added to File Explorer until 2022.

Perhaps seeing File Explorer run better with an Explorer Tab Utility over the top will inspire Microsoft to catch up.

A recent update brought Explorer Tab Utility to version 2.0.0. Below is the change log from the program's GitHub page:

🎯 Major Architectural Changes

• Complete COM Integration: Replaced UI Automation/keyboard simulation with native COM using Shell32,SHDocVw interfaces as well as (IShellWindows, IShellBrowser, IServiceProvider)
• Improved Thread Safety: Added StaTaskScheduler and proper synchronization for COM operations
• Better State Management: Implemented robust window/tab state tracking with concurrent collections

✨ New Features

• Smart Tab Switching: Automatically switches to existing tabs instead of creating duplicates
• Tab History: Reopen closed tabs with CTRL+SHIFT+T
• Tab Flexibility:
  • Support for detaching and reattaching tabs between windows
  • Ability to set a target window for new tabs
  • Handles multiple tabs opening simultaneously
• Enhanced Hotkey System:
  • Toggle window hook (enable/disable tab conversion)
  • Toggle tab reuse (smart tab switching)
  • Toggle utility visibility
  • Expanded hotkey combinations support

🛠 Technical Improvements

• Native Windows integration through COM interfaces
• Eliminated UI automation dependencies and timing issues
• Proper tab lifecycle management with ShellWindows events
• Thread-safe operations with SemaphoreSlim and concurrent collections
• Improved form visibility management
• Better race condition handling between window events

On Windows 11, searching for files can sometimes feel like finding a needle in a haystack, but it doesn't have to be. Whether you're looking for a specific document, an image buried in folders, or a file hidden deep within your system, File Explorer's search feature can be a powerful tool. That's, of course, if you know how to use it efficiently.

Although you can type a search query in the search box, File Explorer includes some functionalities to make search faster and more accurate with advanced search filters, boolean operators, wildcards, indexing settings, and hidden features.

In this how-to guide, I'll outline the different options you can use to find files effortlessly on File Explorer for Windows 11.

How to search more efficiently on File Explorer

File Explorer provides many options for a more precise search to find that specific document, video, or image.

Open File Explorer (Windows key + E), browse to the location where you want to perform a search, and use these instructions:

Search with filters and operators

File Explorer supports advanced search filters that let you narrow down your results.

Basic filters

While in the search box, you can use these basic filters:

• kind: – Searches for files based on their general type or category.
• ext: –Searches for files based on their file extension.
• date: – Searches for files based on their modification date.
• size: – Searches for files based on their size.

Kind filter examples:

• kind:document – Finds all document files (Word docs, PDFs, text files, etc.)
• kind:image – Finds all image files (JPGs, PNGs, GIFs, etc.)
• kind:video – Finds all video files (MP4s, AVIs, MKVs, etc.)
• kind:music – Finds all music files (MP3s, WAVs, FLACs, etc.)
• kind:folder – Finds only folders.

You can combine "kind:" with other filters for more specific searches. For example, kind:image ext:.png will find only PNG image files.

Ext filter examples:

• ext:.pdf – Finds all PDF files.
• ext:.docx – Finds all Microsoft Word documents.
• ext:.jpg – Finds all JPEG image files.

When using this filter, remember to include the dot (.) before the extension. Also, you can use multiple ext: filters to search for files with different extensions. For example, ext:.jpg OR ext:.png will find all JPEG and PNG image files.

Date filter examples:

• date:today – Finds files modified today.
• date:yesterday – Finds files modified yesterday.
• date:last week – Finds files modified in the last week.
• date:last month – Finds files modified in the last month.
• date:2024-03-15 – Finds files modified on March 15, 2024.
• date:>=2025-01-01 AND date:<=2025-02-01 – Finds files modified between January 1 and February 1, 2025.

You can use relative dates (today, yesterday, last week) or specific dates (YYYY-MM-DD format), and you can use comparison operators (>=, <=, >, <) to specify date ranges.

Size filter examples:

• size:>100MB – Finds files larger than 100MB.
• size:<10MB – Finds files smaller than 10MB.
• size:10MB..100MB – Finds files between 10MB and 100MB in size.
• size:tiny – Finds files smaller than 16KB.
• size:small – Finds files between 16KB and 1MB.
• size:medium – Finds files between 1MB and 128MB.
• size:large – Finds files between 128MB and 1GB.
• size:huge – Finds files between 1GB and 4GB.
• size:gigantic – Finds files larger than 4GB.

You can also use comparison operators (>=, <=, >, <) to specify size ranges, and you can use abbreviations like KB, MB, and GB for kilobytes, megabytes, and gigabytes.

The real power of these filters comes from combining them. For example:

• kind:document ext:.pdf date:last week – Finds PDF documents modified in the last week.
• kind:image size:>5MB – Finds images larger than 5MB.
• kind:video ext:.mp4 date:2025-01-01..2025-01-31 – Finds MP4 videos modified in January 2025.

Boolean operators

File Explorer also supports boolean operators, simple words (AND, OR, NOT) used as conjunctions to combine or exclude keywords in a search, producing more refined and relevant results. For example:

• AND – report AND budget (files containing both words).
• OR – report OR budget (files containing either word).
• NOT – report NOT budget (files with "report" but not "budget").

It's important to note that these operators are case-sensitive. For instance, if you want to find a document that includes the words BitLocker and Encryption, the search query should be BitLocker AND Encryption.

This function can show results by matching the query with information in the title and contents of the file.

Also, you can combine boolean operators for more complex searches. Use parentheses to group terms and control the order of operations. For example: (report OR presentation) AND 2025.

Wildcards for partial matches

Wildcards are special characters you can use in File Explorer searches to find files or folders when you're unsure of the exact name.

• asterisk (*) – report* (finds "report1", "report_final", etc.).
• question mark (?) – f?le (finds "file" and "f1le").

The asterisk is the most versatile wildcard. It represents any sequence of characters, whether one character, multiple characters, or none at all. For example.:

• *.txt finds all files ending in ".txt" (like document.txt, notes.txt, etc.).
• report* finds all files starting with "report" (like report2025.pdf, report_summary.docx, etc.).
• *photo* finds all files containing "photo" anywhere in the name (like my_photos.jpg, summer_photos.png, etc.).

This wildcard represents any single character. For example:

• file?.txt finds files like file1.txt, file2.txt, but not file12.txt.
• report_202?.docx finds files like report_2025.docx, report_2024.docx, etc.

As an extra tip, you can use both * and ? in the same search term for more complex searches.

Also, if you want to search for a specific phrase with a wildcard character, write the entire phrase in quotes. For example, "report*2025" will find files that start with "report" and end with "2025" but won't include files with just "report2025" in them.

Finally, if you know the file extension, include it in your search to narrow down the results. For example, *.jpg will find all JPEG image files.

Search by file properties

Instead of just searching for file names, you can also use specific properties inside the metadata.

Of course, this only works if the file includes the metadata you want. For example:

• author:John – Finds files created by "John."
• tag:important – Finds files tagged as "important."
• title:project – Searches for documents with "project" in the title.

For context, metadata is like a secret layer of information hidden within your files. It's essentially "data about data," details that describe and provide context for the file's actual content. Think of it as the behind-the-scenes information that helps you understand, organize, and manage your files more effectively.

Usually, when working on a file, the operating system and application can include information like created and modified dates, author, computer name, and a few other details. However, it's up to you to include additional information, such as title, subject, tags, rating, categories, etc.

You can also edit the metadata information by right-clicking the file, choosing the "Properties" option, and going to the "Details" tab.

Search with advanced query syntax

On File Explorer, you can also use some other more advanced syntaxes to refine your search experience. For example:

• datemodified:last week – Finds files changed in the past week.
• content:Windows – Finds documents that contain the word "Windows."
• foldername:Projects – Searches inside a folder named "Projects."

Search with File Explorer options

If filters and operators are a bit complex, you can use the "Search options" available on File Explorer. The menu offers most of the same filters and operators shown above, but you don't have to remember any syntax, as you can simply choose the type of search you want to perform.

For example, while in File Explorer, open the location you want to search the document, image, audio, video, or folder.

In the search box, type the search query using keywords, such as "Windows 11," and press "Enter."

Quick tip: You can always use the "Ctrl + F" keyboard shortcut to bring the focus to the File Explorer search bar.

On the search result page, File Explorer will surface the available search options in the command bar.

Click the "Search options" menu and choose the filter or operator to refine your search. For instance:

• All subfolders – Performs a search in the current location and subfolders.
• Current folder – Performs a search in the current location but doesn't search inside the subfolders.

Some of the available filters include:

• Date modified – Shows files changed in the time period you specified, such as "Today," "Yesterday," "This week," and all the way to "Last year."
• Kind – Filters the result by the specified type, some of which include "Note," "Music," "Picture," "Program," "Folder," "Game," etc.
• Size – Shows results based on the size you specified. For example, "Empty (0 KB)," "Tiny (0 - 16KB)," "Small (16KB - 1 MB)," "Medium (1 - 128 MB)," "Large (128 MB - 1 GB)," "Huge (1 - 4 GB)," and "Gigantic (>4 GB)."

When selecting any of these filters, you will also notice the search query will update with the syntax as if you typed the full query manually, which can help you memorize the search term for another time.

In addition, the "Search options" menu allows you to change some aspects of the search behavior. For example, if you select the "System files" option, the feature will also search and include results from the operating system installation files.

When you check the "Zipped (compressed) folders" option, the File Explorer will look inside zip files to find your search terms.

Finally, if you select the "File contents" option, the feature will look inside of files to find the search terms.

Save query for frequent searches

If you usually perform the same search query frequently, instead of repeating the action, you can save the search to make it easily accessible from the "Quick access" section.

To save a search on File Explorer, perform a search, click the "See more" button, and from the menu, choose the "Pin to Quick access" option.

Once you complete the steps, the search query will be bookmarked in the system and appear in the "Quick access" section from the left navigation page and on the "Home" page.

Enabled enhanced Indexing

On Windows 11, by default, the system will only search for files and folders in the known folders, such as Documents, Pictures, and Music folders. However, if you want to find content from any location on the computer, you have to enable the "Enhanced" option.

The Enhanced search option will increase the size of the indexing database and consume more system resources, but it'll allow you to search everything on your computer.

To enable the Enhanced search option on Windows 11, you can open Settings > Privacy & security > Searching Windows and select the "Enhanced" option in the "Find my files" setting.

Search with AI (Copilot+ PCs)

Microsoft is also working to bring AI functionalities to the Windows Search experience alongside the existing search feature with the addition of the Semantic Indexing feature.

Semantic Indexing uses Natural Language Processing (NLP) with an on-device Phi Silica AI model to understand the meaning of the search term. In other words, using this new system, you can search for files, settings, and other content using natural language and not necessarily keywords present in the file.

For instance, you can search for "mountain bike" to bring up pictures you may have taken while cycling. However, the keywords are not present in the file's context or metadata. Instead, the Semantic Indexing system understands the contents inside the photos.

This feature is still in preview, and since it requires an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), it'll only be available for Copilot+ PCs. Microsoft is testing the feature in the File Explorer, Start menu, and Settings app.

More resources

Find in-depth guides, troubleshooting tips, and the latest updates on Windows 11 and 10 here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Windows 11's built-in File Explorer is functional and quick, but it lacks the modern design I crave in apps. It's also missing some features and options that you usually only get from apps built from the ground up within the last few years. That's where "Files" comes in. The third-party app is my favorite File Explorer alternative, and it just got a significant update to version 3.9. That update is the largest the app has seen in years and includes several improvements and changes that I'm excited to try out.

Files version 3.9 introduces a Cards View layout that shows metadata for files. When I upload images to Windows Central, I need to make sure they're below a certain size threshold. The new layout within Files shows me the size of a file without me having to right-click or click on the item. The view also shows tag icons and the sync status of files.

The update to version 3.9 is noteworthy because of the number of changes it brings. Card view, grid view, thumbnails, and the details pane are all improved with the update. The app now supports custom shortcut names and DPI aware icons and thumbnails as well.

My favorite change is that Files will now remain in the background when you drag an item to a different application. I handle a lot of PDFs and images, and I often need to drag them into various apps.

Files v3.9: Whats new

Introducing the Cards View layout

We’ve added a new Cards View layout that includes standard metadata like the item thumbnail, name, type, and size, along with context specific properties. For instance, images display their dimensions, media files show their duration, and phones and tablets show their storage details. File tags and sync status for cloud drives are also displayed. This new view replaces the former Tiles View.

Improved contrast in the Grid View layout

The Grid View layout now features an accent colored border around selected items, improving visibility and contrast.

Thumbnail sizes

Icon and thumbnail sizes in the Details View, List View, Columns View, and Cards View are now synchronized with the selected layout size.

Storage information in the Details Pane

We’ve added a new section to the Details Pane that displays drive storage details, giving you quick access to this information.

Custom shortcut names

You can now assign custom names directly from the Create New Shortcut dialog. Previously, shortcut names were automatically assigned and could only be renamed after creation.

Revamped Release Notes experience

We’ve revamped the Release Notes experience. The toolbar button that appears after an update now features a fresh new icon. We’ve also added a new action that lets you access the Release Notes dialog anytime, not just after an update. Finally, the Release Notes dialog now directly displays changelogs from the Files website.

Redesigned Update Files button

The Update Files toolbar button, which appears when an update is available, has been redesigned with a new accent colored icon. It’s now more noticeable, helping you update Files more easily.

DPI awareness improvements

Icons and thumbnails are now DPI aware in the Details View, List View, Columns View, Cards View, the search suggestion flyout, and the Tags Widget, ensuring clarity on all displays.

Updated Tags Widget

The Tags Widget has been refreshed to align with the overall UI design. We’ve also added a new feature allowing you to apply tags by dragging and dropping files or folders onto tags in the sidebar, making organization even easier.

Enhanced support for image files

You can now rotate JPEG-XR images using the toolbar or right click context menu. Additionally, you can now set JPEG-XR images as your desktop or lockscreen background directly from Files.

Auto focus new tabs

We’ve added a new setting to automatically switch to newly created tabs. This option is available on the General Settings page.

Improved Properties Window

You can now browse for .icl files on the customize page in the Properties Window. We’ve also added support for modifying the ‘compress contents’ attribute, and the shortcut page now allows you to adjust the window size for opening shortcut files.

New launch protocols

We’ve added individual launch protocols for each branch of Files, making it easier to work with different versions.

Performance enhancements

Items in the breadcrumb flyout now begin loading as soon as the flyout starts to open, rather than waiting for it to fully open. We’ve also removed the open and close animations from the breadcrumb, back button, and forward button flyouts. Additionally, thumbnails within these flyouts are now loaded lazily, reducing initial load times and improving overall responsiveness.

Improved Drag & Drop functionality

The Files window now stays in the background when you drag items to other applications. Additionally, you can now drag files directly from the Recent Files widget into other applications.

Archive support

You can set Files as the default application for opening .gz archives, streamlining access to compressed files. We’ve also updated our 7zip dependencies to leverage the latest improvements.

Details View settings

Toggling columns via the Settings Dialog now updates all existing tabs. Previously, changes only affected new tabs opened after the change.

Updated Home Page

We’ve improved the Home Page by removing the empty toolbar area, providing a cleaner look.

Address Bar keyboard navigation

We’ve added support for opening breadcrumb flyouts using the Space and Enter keys, improving keyboard navigation.

Taskbar

The number of open tabs is no longer displayed in the Windows Taskbar.

Cloud Drive support

Added support for Lucid Link v3.

Files v3.9: Fixes

Actions

• Fixed a crash that would occur when using the ‘Storage Sense’ action.
• Resolved an issue with the ‘Run with PowerShell’ action not working for files with spaces in their names.

Address Bar

• Fixed keyboard navigation in the address path bar.
• Resolved an issue where the address bar flyouts sometimes displayed duplicate items.

Archives

• Fixed an issue where the size wasn’t displayed after creating a new archive.

Cloud Drives

• Addressed various issues with Google Drive support.

Columns View

• Fixed an issue that caused unexpected scrolling in the Columns View layout.
• Resolved a crash that would occur when opening the context menu in the Columns View layout.

Drag & Drop

• Resolved multiple issues with drag & drop support between Files and other applications.

Git Repos

• Fixed an issue where soft link details were misaligned in Git repositories.

Group By and Sort By

• Resolved an issue where changing the grouping and sorting preferences would only update the current tab.

Right Click Context Menu

• Fixed an issue where right-clicking a file would display the option to open in a new tab.

Startup

• Fixed a crash that would occur when starting Files from WSL directories.
• Resolved startup freeze caused by a heavily populated Recycle Bin.
• Fixed an issue where the previous session’s tabs were briefly displayed when the startup setting was set to ‘open new tab’.
• Fixed an issue where launching Files from Terminal didn’t use the correct path.

Tabs

• Resolved an issue where tabs weren’t placed in the correct order when dragged from other windows.

Tags

• Resolved an issue with displaying properties for tagged items.
• Fixed an issue where tags sometimes displayed with the wrong color.

Title Bar

• Fixed an issue where the title bar drag region was sometimes missing.

• Files, an alternative to File Explorer, just received a preview update.
• The update improves the Details Pane and adds new features.
• More changes were teased by the Files developer for the next update.

File Explorer is the default on Windows PCs, but it's not the prettiest app for file management. That title goes to Files, a third-party file explorer available on Windows 11 and Windows 10. Files just received a preview update that brings the app to version 3.8.1. The most noteworthy change is in the details pane, which now shows storage information when viewing a drive. There are also several other changes and fixes that ship with Files v3.8.1.

You can compare the details pane in Files to the same experience in the default File Explorer on Windows 11. I like the look of the layout in Files better, but File Explorer shows the percentage of used space in the selected drive. I'd love to know which you prefer, so please hop into the comments below.

Other changes in Files v3.8.1 include the option to assign a custom name when creating a new shortcut and the ability to set Files as the default app on Windows for opening gz archives.

What's on the way to Files in 2025?

While the most immediate news related to Files is the preview of Files v3.8.1 rolling out, more exciting changes are on the horizon. I spoke with Yair, the developer of Files, to get a glimpse of what's on the way in 2025. One of the biggest changes should be a boost in performance. Files will soon utilize AOT (Ahead-of-Time) compilation, resulting in a quicker app.

"Users can look forward to our continued focus on both stability and performance throughout 2025. Once we overcome the current blockers, we're excited about the performance improvements enabling Native AOT will bring," said Yair.

Enabling AOT will take some time since libraries need to be migrated.

Native AOT support is relatively new. Microsoft discussed it earlier this year in September when announcing Windows App SDK 1.6. Compiling to native code ahead of time reduces the memory used by an app and reduces startup time. Microsoft explained:

"We’re very excited to bring the powerful capabilities of Native AOT to developers through the Windows App SDK! In our sample Contoso Camera app, we measured a 50% reduction in start time, an ~8x reduction in package size when using a framework package and a ~2x reduction in package size when using Windows App SDK in self-contained mode. While your results might vary, we encourage you to give Native AOT a try if it’s right for your app!"

Yair changed how release notes are shared, starting with Files v3.8.1. "Moving forward, we will be posting on blog for preview updates to maintain transparency and keep users more informed about our progress," said Yair. The app also has a more attractive layout for its release notes.

Below are the changes shared in the most recent blog post:

Files v3.8.1: What's new

• Details pane
  • Added storage information when viewing drive details in the Details Pane.
• Shortcut files
  • Added support for assigning a custom name when creating a new shortcut.
• Properties windows
  • Added support for changing the ‘compress’ attribute from the properties window.
• Taskbar
  • Removed the number of open tabs from being displayed in the Windows Taskbar.
• Archives
  • Added support for setting Files as the default app on Windows for opening gz archives.
• Drag & drop
  • Improved the behavior so that Files is no longer brought to the foreground when dragging items to another application.
• Details Layout
  • Modifying which columns are enabled in the Settings will now automatically update existing tabs. Previously, this setting only applied to tabs opened after the change.
• Release Notes
  • The Release Notes dialog was updated to display changelogs directly from the Files website.
  • Added a new action to open the Release Notes dialog. Previously, the dialog was only accessible during the session immediately following an update.

Files v3.8.1: Fixes

• Address Bar
  • Fixed an issue where the address bar flyouts sometimes displayed duplicate items.
• Tabs
  • Fixed an issue where tabs weren’t placed in the correct order when dragged from other windows.
• Actions
  • Fixed an issue with the ‘Run with PowerShell’ action not working for files with spaces in their names.

On Windows 11, the modern version of File Explorer can also show thumbnails for a quick preview of the contents of a file, folder, document, image, or video.

Although this feature can be usable to find files and folders faster without even having to open them or look at their name, it can make browsing slower and cause problems since the system has to scan and render image previews for every piece of content.

If you keep your files and folders organized, File Explorer is taking a long time to load files, or you don't want to use this feature, you can turn off thumbnail previews in more than one way on Windows 11. If you change your mind, it's possible to turn it on again.

In this how-to guide, I will explain the steps to disable (and enable) thumbnail previews in File Explorer for Windows 11.

Warning: This is a friendly reminder that editing the Registry is risky, and if you do not complete the task correctly, it can cause irreversible damage to your installation. It is recommended that you make a full backup of the device before p

How to turn thumbnail previews on or off through File Explorer

To manage thumbnail previews through File Explorer on Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the "See more" menu and choose Options.

3. Click the View tab.
4. (Option 1) Check the "Always show icons, never thumbnails" option to turn off the feature.

1. (Option 2) Clear the "Always show icons, never thumbnails" option to turn on the feature.
2. Click the Apply button.
3. Click the OK button.

Once you complete the steps, the File Explorer settings will apply to turn thumbnails for files and folders on or off.

How to turn thumbnail previews on or off through Settings

To enable or disable thumbnail previews from Settings, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on System.
3. Click the About page on the right side.

4. Click the Advanced system settings option.

5. Click the Advanced tab.
6. Click the Settings button under the "Performance" section.

5. Click the Visual Effects tab.
6. (Option 1) Clear the "Show thumbnails instead of icons" option to turn off the feature.

7. (Option 2) Check the "Show thumbnails instead of icons " option to turn on the feature.
8. Click the Apply button.
9. Click the OK button.

After you complete the steps, File Explorer will no longer show previews for files and folders.

How to turn thumbnail previews on or off through Group Policy

To control thumbnail previews from Group Policy, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for gpedit and click the top result to open the Group Policy Editor.
3. Browse the following path: User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > File Explorer
4. Right-click the "Turn off the display of thumbnails and only display icons" policy and choose the Edit option.

5. (Option 1) Choose the Enabled option to turn off the feature.

6. (Option 2) Choose the Not configured option to turn on the feature.
7. Click the Apply button.
8. Click the OK button.

Once you complete the steps, the policy will apply the settings to your computer to show or remove thumbnail previews.

How to turn thumbnail previews on or off through Registry

To use the Registry to disable or re-enable thumbnail previews on Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for regedit and click the top result to open the Registry Editor.
3. Browse the following path: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
4. Right-click the Explorer key, choose New, and select the DWORD (32-bit) Value option (if applicable).

5. Confirm the DisableThumbnails name for the DWORD and press Enter.
6. Right-click the newly created DWORD and choose the Modify option.
7. Change the value from 0 to 1.

9. Click the OK button.
10. Browse the following path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
11. Right-click the Explorer key, choose New, and select the DWORD (32-bit) Value option (if applicable).

12. Confirm the DisableThumbnails name for the DWORD and press Enter.
13. Right-click the newly created DWORD and choose the Modify option.
14. Change the value from 0 to 1.

12. Click the OK button.

After you complete the steps, you may still need to restart the computer to apply the settings.

If you change your mind, you can revert the changes by following the same steps, but on steps 7 and 14, change the DisableThumbnails DWORD value to 0.

More resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

File Explorer is also getting some improvements as part of the Windows 11 version 24H2. In this updated version of the file manager, Microsoft is rolling out changes to the context menu, tabs system, file management for archive formats and ".png" files, and a few other tweaks.

In this guide, I will show you the new changes to File Explorer in the latest version of Windows 11.

File Explorer new changes for version 24H2

Starting with this feature update, you will notice these changes on File Explorer.

Compression wizard 

In version 23H2, Windows 11 introduced the ability to open and extract many archival formats (such as Tar, Tar, and 7z), and starting with the release of version 24H2, File Explorer is getting a wizard to create archival formats.

The wizard includes support to create 7zip, Tar, and Zip files, so there's no option to make ".rar" archival, nor is there an option to work with encryption.

You can invoke the "Create Archive" wizard by right-clicking the file, selecting items, and then clicking "Additional options." 

This will allow you to create a Zip, 7z, or TAR file.

If you choose the 7zip option, the compression methods include:

• LZMA2.
• Store.
• Deflate.
• BZip2.
• LZMA1.
• LZMA2.
• PPMd.

For Tar (GNU, POSIX pax interchange, Restricted POSIX interchange, and POSIX ustar), the compression methods include:

• BZip2.
• Gzip.
• xz.
• Zstandard.

Finally, for Zip, the compression methods include:

• Store.
• Deflate.

The wizard even lets you retain the hard and symbolic links.

Also, as part of the extraction process, when a file conflicts with a file using the same name, File Explorer will automatically output a dialog box to skip or replace the conflicts for all the files.

Context menu update

Although you will have to click on "Show more options" to access the legacy version of the context menu, the modern version finally has labels for "Cut," "Copy," "Rename," "Share," and "Delete." 

I know the icons actually describe the action, but it can also be confusing for some users. I admit this happened to me many times.

Thumbnail previews changes

Another minor update with File Explorer is happening with the thumbnail previews. While hovering over a group of tabs, the preview will now show the name of the tab in focus and the number of tabs in that particular instance of File Explorer.

PNG metadata support

As it turns out, the original version of File Explorer never included support for viewing and editing metadata for ".png" files. However, you can now view and edit starts, descriptions, keywords, and more.

Home page section revamp

On the "Home" page, File Explorer is updating the sections within the page. In this new version, the "Quick access" section remains unchanged, but instead of different sections for "Favorites" and "Recent," Microsoft is combining these sections and creating tabs. 

Furthermore, there is a new "Shared" tab that will show files that were shared with you, and if you use a business account, you will also be able to review comments in the files.

If the tab doesn't have anything to show, you will notice an icon with a message explaining why you're not seeing any files.

As part of the Share interface changes, if you have an Android phone connected to the Phone Link app, it will appear as an option to share the content directly to your phone.

Furthermore, if you have an Android phone connected to the "Manage mobile devices" experience, you will able to access the phone storage as if you were connecting the device using a USB cable.

You have to make sure to turn on the "Show mobile device in File Explorer" toggle switch on Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mobile devices > Manage devices.

Other recently added features

In addition to these improvements, Microsoft recently made some changes available not only on version 24H2, but they are also available on version 23H2.

For example, in previous versions, File Explorer included the ability to drag and drop files in the address bar to relocate the item outside the original folder to a new location within the path. The feature was suddenly removed, but it's now coming back as part of this feature update.

For the tab system, you can now right-click a tab and choose the "Duplicate tab" option.

In addition to these changes, Microsoft is also rolling out some under-the-hood and performance improvements.

Important: As a result of Microsoft gradually rolling out new features and improvements for Windows 11 versions 23H2 and 24H2, not all the changes will be available on day one with the release of the 2024 Update. Also, some improvements meant for version 24H2 will eventually be ported to version 23H2. The company is even working on changes that will first be available on version 23H2, and then they will be ported to version 24H2. Also, it is worth noting that the feature update became partially available on June 18, 2024, for Copilot+ PCs, but with only some of the intended features, excluding Windows Recall, as it has been postponed until further notice. In October, the feature update will become more broadly available for existing devices. Finally, AI features may require new hardware (such as NPU) to be available.

More resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources: 

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

What you need to know

• The "Files" app received an update recently that adds a few small features and that improves the experience when using Google Drive.
• Files is a third-party file management app that has several features that Microsoft's File Explorer lacks.

The Windows 11 File Explorer is fine. Functional and consistent, Microsoft's app for file management has been around for ages. But File Explorer lacks some pizzazz. If you want a modern file management experience, you need to look at third-party alternatives. One option is the Files app, which I've covered for years. It's my favorite File Explorer alternative, thanks to its modern design, feature set, and development path. A recent update to Files adds some handy fixes noted in its change log, plus one change not mentioned anywhere.

The most recent update to Files brings the app to version 3.7. The app's change log outlines additions, such as an optional toolbar button to navigate to home and the option to hide the System Tray icon. The developers of Files also refactor the app's code for detecting Google Drive, which should result in a better experience. That change isn't noted in the release page of Files, but the developer shared it with me recently.

Google Drive has been an excellent cloud storage solution for years. It's received a bit of extra attention in the Windows space lately since Google announced the app will come to Snapdragon-powered PCs later this year. Google Drive is very popular, so its absence on Windows on Arm PCs was a deal breaker for many.

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Files v3.7

• Added a setting to hide the System Tray icon
• Focus existing tab when opening locations from external process
• View navigation history when right clicking back/forward buttons
• Added thumbnails to the breadcrumb flyouts
• Optional toolbar button to navigate home
• Customize CPU threads when creating archives
• Added an action to navigate home
• Experimental support for flattening folders
• Removed the loading animation from the home page
• Hold the shift key while pressing the properties button to open the File Explorer properties window
• Added support for opening the breadcrumb dropdown via keyboard navigation
• Added support for Infomaniak kDrive
• Added an option to close the active pane from the right-click context menu
• Corrected inverted scrolling behavior for icon size adjustment
• Fixed an issue where shortcuts couldn’t be created for commands
• Fixed an issue where resuming from background didn’t bring Files to the foreground
• Fixed an issue where context menus didn’t follow the custom font setting
• Fixed an issue where a shortcut to a folder couldn’t be created
• Fixed an issue where Google Drive wasn’t displayed when mounted as a folder
• Fixed an issue where layout settings didn’t persist across updates
• Fixed an issue where folders with file extensions were sometimes treated as files
• Fixed an issue where ejecting drives would sometimes fail
• Fixed an issue where double-clicking a file would sometimes navigate up
• Fixed issues with opening certain file formats

What you need to know

• Files, a third-party file explorer on Windows 11, received an update recently that adds a new orientation option when using dual pane mode.
• The app can now display dual panes either horizontally or vertically.
• The update also adds a few other small features and a lengthy list of fixes.

Third-party file explorer "Files" just received an update that makes dual pane mode more versatile. The app can now display dual panes vertically as well as horizontally. Previously, the app could only show dual panes side-by-side. The update brings Files to version 3.6 and includes several fixes and a few other new features, such as adding an "Actions" menu to the app's title bar.

Dual pane mode creates to areas within Files that you can navigate. It looks and acts similar to split screen mode in Microsoft Edge. The advantage of dual pane mode is that you don't have to deal with duplicate versions of navigation elements or swap between tabs.

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Before the recent update, Files only supported a horizontal orientation when using dual pane mode. Of course, that was already one more orientation than the official Windows 11 File Explorer from Microsoft, which does not have a dual pane mode. You can somewhat replicate dual pane mode by opening two instances of File Explorer, but that's not as elegant of a solution.

The developer of Files details all of the app's new features and fixes in the releases page of the app's GitHub listing.

Files v3.6: What's new

• Added support for changing the pane orientation in Dual Pane mode
• Added an "Actions" menu to the title bar
• Customize folder locations with unique background images
• Added localization for Malay
• Optimized sorting performance when loading large folders
• Moved the sidebar toggle button to the address toolbar
• Added a keyboard shortcut to toggle the toolbar visibility Ctrl+Shift+B
• Added a keyboard shortcut to move focus between panes in Dual Pane mode Ctrl+Shift+Right
• Added support for clicking links when previewing markdown files
• Added an action to toggle the dot files setting

Files v3.6: What's fixed

• Fixed an issue where the tab title was empty when opening a folder in a new tab
• Fixed an issue where dragging or opening multiple items would use the wrong sort mode
• Fixed an issue where Run with PowerShell didn't display a window
• Fixed an issue where the Home Page was opened when Files was launched with custom args
• Fixed an issue where changing the layout size didn't work when adaptive layout was enabled
• Fixed an issue where quick search filtering wasn't cleared when navigating to another folder
• Fixed an issue where non-cached windows sometimes had the wrong theme
• Fixed an issue where settings weren't exported in the correct format
• Fixed an issue where double tap to rename was too sensitive
• Fixed an issue where hover to open was too sensitive
• Fixed an issue where the cursor wasn't inline when resizing columns in the Details View
• Fixed an issue where online files were downloaded when loading tooltips
• Fixed an issue where navigation button had the wrong foreground in the disabled state
• Fixed an issue where arguments weren’t passed when running shortcuts as admin
• Fixed an issue with compressing and extracting archives on ARM64 devices
• Fixed an issue where a warning about WSL would display on startup
• Fixed the position of the "New item" flyout
• Fixed a crash that would sometimes occur when updating Files
• Fixed a crash that would occur when entering invalid parameters via command line
• Fixed crash that would sometimes occur when adding items to the jumplist
• Fixed ArgumentNullException in DefaultSettingsSerializer.ReadFromFile
• Fixed ArgumentNullException in SortingHelper.OrderFileList
• Fixed ArgumentException in PinnedFoldersManager
• Fixed ArgumentException in PathNormalization.NormalizePath
• Fixed TypeInitializationException in UIHelpers
• Fixed DirectoryNotFoundException when pinning items to the start menu
• Fixed FileNotFoundException in Recycle Bin watcher
• Fixed NullReferenceException in DriveItem.LoadThumbnailAsync
• Fixed NullReferenceException in SystemTrayIcon.OnQuitClicked
• Fixed NullReferenceException in RecycleBinLocationItem.RefreshSpaceUsed
• Fixed NullReferenceException in DrivesWidgetViewModel.NavigateToPath
• Fixed InvalidOperationException in SideloadUpdateService.CheckForUpdatesAsync
• Fixed COMException in MainWindow.EnsureWindowIsInitialized
• Fixed COMException in SidebarItem.ItemGrid_Drop

What you need to know

• Microsoft has announced a new feature that lets you browse your phone's filesystem directly in the Windows File Explorer.
• It enables the ability to view, copy, edit, and paste files to and from your Android device wirelessly.
• The feature is now in preview and will begin rolling out in the coming weeks.

Microsoft has officially announced a new feature coming soon to Windows 11 that will let you wirelessly browse your Android phone's filesystem directly within the Windows 11 File Explorer. This new integration is now available in preview form via the Windows Insider Program and will begin rolling out to all users in the coming weeks.

The feature was first spotted in preview builds last month but is now officially rolling out to preview testers in any of the four Windows Insider channels. It works on Windows 11 version 23H2 or 24H2 running the latest available preview builds, and requires running the latest BETA version of Link To Windows on your Android phone.

You can set up the feature via the Windows Settings app by navigating to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mobile Devices, and selecting "manage devices." This integration is separate from the Windows Phone Link app, which handles messages, notifications, and photos. 

Once setup, you will see the name of your phone in the File Explorer sidebar, and you'll be able to click it to see all the files, documents, images, and video stored locally on your phone. You can even see how much storage is being used and how much you have free.

Microsoft describes the feature as follows:

With this new experience, you will be able to wirelessly browse through all your folders and files, including media that is on your Android phone. You can open them, copy them to your PC, copy PC files to your phone, rename files, move them, and delete them.

As the feature is currently in preview, there are a handful of known issues to be aware of, mainly with deleting files and having them sent to a recycle bin folder on your phone. You can read all the known issues at the official blog link.

The ability to see your phone's filesystem in the Windows File Explorer is just one of many new features announced over the last few months that designed to better tie your phone to your computer. Recently, Microsoft announced a new Start menu feature that will show an overview of your phone's status and notifications directly within Start, along with the ability to use your phone's camera as a webcam on your PC.

What you need to know

• Microsoft released Windows 11 Builds 22621.3951 and 22631.3951 to the Release Preview Channels this week.
• The builds include a few new features, including an option to duplicate a tab in File Explorer with a right-click shortcut.
• Following the update, it's possible to drag apps from the Pinned section of the Start menu to pin them to the taskbar.
• The update also includes several fixes and improvements.

Windows 11 has a few new features on the way that are now in testing among Windows Insiders in the Release Preview Channel. Windows 11 Builds 22621.3951 and 22631.3951 shipped this week, bringing a small handful of new features and a lengthy list of fixes and improvements.

File Explorer has a new shortcut through the right-click menu that will let you duplicate a tab. At the moment, right-clicking a tab in File Explorer shows options to close that tab, close other tabs, or close tabs the right of the one you right-clicked.

The taskbar also gained a new function, as it can now have apps pinned to it by dragging those apps from the Pinned section of the Start menu. The third new feature is only available in China, and it's a prompt to turn on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi when you enable Windows Share.

Some of the changes are rolling out gradually, so you may not see them yet even if your PC is on the latest Insider build of Windows 11. All three of the new features in this week's Release Preview builds are part of gradual rollouts.

Microsoft formatted its blog post for this build a bit differently than other similar posts. I've reformatted the company's change log below to make it a bit easier to read:

Windows 11 Builds 22621.3951 and 22631.3951: What's new

Notification for Windows Share in China

• For nearby sharing to work, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth must be on. If they are off when you turn on nearby sharing, Windows will ask you to allow them to be turned on. This feature might not be available to all users because it will roll out gradually.

File Explorer

• When you right-click a tab, you have the choice to duplicate it. This feature might not be available to all users because it will roll out gradually.

Start menu

• You can drag apps from the Pinned section of the menu and pin them to the taskbar. This feature might not be available to all users because it will roll out gradually.

Windows 11 Builds 22621.3951 and 22631.3951: Improvements and fixes

File Explorer

• Improves File Explorer reliability, by addressing multiple crashes and hangs. Also, addressed multiple other issues listed as follows. Fixes for these issues might not be available to all users because they will roll out gradually
  • File Explorer leaks memory leak when interacting with archive folders.
  • The spacing between your desktop icons unexpectedly may become extremely wide.
  • Starting a search from Home in File Explorer may unexpectedly show no results the first time you attempt a search.
  • The address bar dropdown appears unexpectedly sometimes while you are using File Explorer, for example when renaming a file.
  • After a DWM crash, when you open File Explorer it may just show a blank area on top instead of rending the area correctly.
  • File Explorer doesn’t react when using the back and forward buttons on a mouse while hovering over the Recommended Files section of Home.
  • The search box doesn’t show the correct folder name when you are in Gallery.
  • Pictures in File Explorer Gallery might flash or flicker when scrolling.
  • When using the save dialog, if you try to save a file to Gallery in File Explorer shows an error.

End Task

• Updated the logic for the “End Task” option in the taskbar so that it no longer shows a Not Responding dialog to give confirmation before ending the task. This option is available for users who have enabled End Task under Settings > System > For Developers.

FrameShutdownDelay

• The browser ignores its value in the “HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main” registry key.

Group Policy Preferences Item Level Targeting (ILT) and Local Users and Groups

• You cannot choose a group from the target domain for ILT. Also, you cannot choose an account from Local Users and Groups. The forest does not appear. This issue occurs when you deploy multiple forests, and the target domain has a one-way trust with the domain of the admin. This issue affects Enhanced Security Admin Environment (ESAE), Hardened Forests (HF), or Privileged Access Management (PAM) deployments.

Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCPIP)

• The issue causes high CPU usage and loss of packets. It also affects TCP connection success rates.

NetAdapterCx module

• A system stops responding when large amounts of data travel over Wi-Fi. This issue occurs on devices that have certain wireless network cards.

Universal Print clients

• They fail to communicate with the Universal Print service. This affects printing functions. This issue occurs when you turn on Web Proxy Auto Discovery (WPAD).

Print Support App

• When you use the app with a USB device, the app stops responding and does not print. This issue also limits the functions of the user interface.

Autopilot

• Using it to provision Surface Laptop SE devices fails.

Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC)

• A memory leak occurs that might exhaust system memory as time goes by. This issue occurs when you provision a device.
• WDAC fails to verify the policies of some apps.

Windows Kernel Vulnerable Driver Blocklist file (DriverSiPolicy.p7b)

• This update adds to the list of drivers that are at risk for Bring Your Own Vulnerable Driver (BYOVD) attacks.

Bluetooth

• You cannot put calls on hold from Bluetooth peripherals.

Windows Backup

• Backup sometimes fails. This occurs when a device has an Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI) system partition (ESP).

Cache manager

• It might stop responding. This occurs when you use Hyperthreading on Windows Server 2022.

On Windows 11, the system can automatically recognize and set up most storage drives, including hard disk drives (HDD), solid-state drives (SSD), and external USB hard drives (as well as flash drives). However, if the hard drive doesn't show on File Explorer, you will have to perform different troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue.

For instance, if File Explorer fails to list one of the hard drives, it could be a physical connection problem or missing configuration. You could be trying to set up a drive from another device, and depending on the configuration, it may not appear on your computer. The partition could have gotten corrupted, or it was never configured in the first place. 

Whatever the issue might be, Windows 11 provides the tools to troubleshoot virtually any problem to make the drive accessible through the Settings app, Disk Management, Device Manager, and Command Prompt.

In this how-to guide,  I will walk you through the steps to troubleshoot and fix (most) problems causing File Explorer not to show a specific hard drive on Windows 11.

How to fix missing storage on File Explorer via physical troubleshooting

The system may not be able to show a particular drive on File Explorer for many reasons, and before you start changing settings, it's recommended to check the physical connection with the storage:

• Check the storage is correctly connected to the device and receiving power.
• If this is an external USB hard drive, disconnect it and try a different USB port. For example, if the drive is connected using a port in the back, try the USB ports in the front of the computer case. If you use a USB hub, connect the drive directly to the machine, as the issue could be the hub not supplying the correct amount of power or another problem.
• If it is an internal hard drive, ensure the data and power cables (if applicable) are securely connected to the drive, motherboard, and power supply. Before getting your hands inside the case, power off and unplug the computer.
• Connect the hard drive to another machine to check whether the problem is the hard drive or the computer.
• Access the computer's Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) and ensure the firmware detects the storage. The motherboard firmware can be different per manufacturer and even per device model. As such, check the manufacturer support website for more specific instructions.

After checking for physical problems, you can proceed to fix the most common problem preventing File Explorer from showing a hard drive on Windows 11. 

How to fix missing storage on File Explorer via Device Manager

It doesn't happen often, but the hard drive could be disabled, which can be quickly resolved using Device Manager.

To enable a storage drive from Device Manager, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for Device Manager and click the top result to open the app.
3. Expand the Disk drives branch.
4. Right-click the hard drive in question and select the Properties option.

5. Click the Driver tab.
6. Click the Enable Device button.

7. Click the OK button.

After completing the steps, the drive should appear on File Explorer.

How to fix missing storage on File Explorer via Disk Management

On virtually any version of Windows, some requirements need to be met for a drive to appear on File Explorer. First, the storage must be online and initialized. Also, it has to have a partition and a drive letter assigned, or it should be mounted as a folder.

If you have to configure the hard drive, you can do this from the Disk Management app.

Change drive to online

To bring the drive online on Windows 11, use these steps: 

1. Open Start.
2. Search for Disk Management and click the top result to open the app.
3. Right-click the disk with the "Offline label" and select the Online option.

Once you complete the steps, the drive and data should now be accessible from File Explorer. 

In the case that the storage was offline and never configured, continue with the steps below to initialize it.

Initialize new drive

To initialize a hard drive on Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for Disk Management and click the top result to open the app.
3. Right-click the disk with the "Unknown" label and select the Initialize Disk option.

4. Check the drive to initialize under the "Select disks" section.
5. Select the "GPT (GUID Partition Table)" option.

6. Click the OK button.

After completing the steps, this process will wipe out the drive's contents and prepare it to be formatted if the drive was never initialized.

Configure drive letter

When the hard drive is online and initialized and does not appear in the system, it could be for two reasons: the storage device does not include a drive letter, or if it was configured to another computer, the system may be trying to assign the same drive letter already assigned to another device.

To assign a drive letter on Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for Disk Management and click the top result to open the app.
3. Right-click the partition on the hard drive without a drive letter and select the "Change Drive Letter and Paths" option.

4. Click the Add button.
5. Select the "Assign the following driver letter" option.
6. Choose the drive letter.

7. Click the OK button.

After you complete the steps, the data should now be accessible on Windows 11.

Configure new partition

If the drive is online and initialized, it may not have a partition. You can resolve this issue by creating and formatting a partition and assigning a letter. 

To configure a hard drive to appear on File Explorer, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for Disk Management and click the top result to open the app.
3. Right-click the partition on the drive and select the "New Simple Volume" option.

4. Click the Next button.
5. Click the Next button to use the space for the partition, or specify the size using the "Simple volume size in MB" option.

4. Click the Next button.
5. Select the "Assign the following driver letter" option.
6. Choose the drive letter.

7. Click the Next button.
8. Select the "Format this volume with the following settings" option.
9. Choose the NTFS option from the "File system" setting.
10. Select the Default option from the "Allocation unit" setting.
11. In the "Volume label" field, confirm a descriptive name for the drive.
12. Check the "Perform a quick format" option.

13. Click the Next button.
14. Click the Finish button.

Once you complete the steps, the hard drive should be accessible from File Explorer on Windows 11.

How to fix missing storage on File Explorer via Settings app

The "Disks & Volumes" settings page works similarly to the "Disk Management" app. The difference is that the modern version of the experience doesn't have every option, as the legacy version and workflow are slightly different.

Initialize new drive

To initialize a hard drive through the Settings app, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on System.
3. Click the Storage page on the right side.
4. Click "Advanced storage settings" under the "Storage management" section.
5. Click on Disks & Volumes.

6. Click the Initialize button on the drive.

7. Choose the "GPT (GUID Partition Table)" option.
8. Click the Initialize button.

After you complete the steps, this action will delete everything from the drive and make the storage ready to store a new partition.

Create new partition

To create a new partition on the drive, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on System.
3. Click the Storage page on the right side.
4. Click "Advanced storage settings" under the "Storage management" section.
5. Click on Disks & Volumes.

6. Click on the drive to configure.
7. Choose the "Create Simple Volume" option from the unallocated space.

8. Confirm a name for the drive in the "Label" setting.
9. Choose the drive letter from the "Drive Letter" setting.
10. Select the NTFS option from the "File System" setting.

8. Confirm a name for the drive in the "Label" setting.
9. Choose the drive letter from the "Drive Letter" setting.
10. Select the NTFS option from the "File System" setting.
11. Continue with the default settings to use the entire drive to create the partition.
12. Click the Format button.

Once you complete the steps, the drive should appear on File Explorer.

Change drive to online

You can only bring the drive online if the device was previously configured on the same computer. 

To bring a drive online from the Settings app, use the following steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on System.
3. Click the Storage page on the right side.
4. Click "Advanced storage settings" under the "Storage management" section.
5. Click on Disks & Volumes.

6. Click the Properties button for the drive to bring online.

7. Click the Bring online button under the "Status" section.

After you complete the steps, the hard drive should be accessible from the "This PC" page on File Explorer.

Configure drive letter

To assign a drive letter to a drive to make the storage available on Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on System.
3. Click the Storage page on the right side.
4. Click "Advanced storage settings" under the "Storage management" section.
5. Click on Disks & Volumes.

6. Click on the drive to configure.
7. Click the Properties button for the partition (not the drive).

8. Click the "Change drive letter" button.

9. Select the drive letter to make the storage accessible.
10. Click the OK button.

Once you complete the steps, the computer's drive data should be accessible using File Explorer.

How to fix missing storage on File Explorer via driver update

If the problem is related to a device driver, you should reinstall or update the driver to the latest version to resolve the issue.

Reinstall storage driver

To reinstall the storage driver on Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for Device Manager and click the top result to open the app.
3. Expand the Disk drives branch.
4. Right-click the hard drive in question and select the Uninstall device option.

5. Click the Uninstall button.
6. Restart the computer

Once you complete the steps, the system should reinstall the driver automatically, and you should now be able to access the data on the drive from File Explorer.

Update storage driver

To update the storage driver, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Windows Update.
3. Click the Advanced options page on the right side.

4. Click the Optional updates settings from the "Additional options" section.

5. Choose the driver update (if applicable).
6. Click the Download & install button.

After you complete the steps, the driver will download and install it on the computer to make the storage accessible.

It's important to note that it could also be a problem with storage firmware. If so, you must check your manufacturer support website to download their tool to update the hard drive. (This is only recommended if a known issue and a new firmware update becomes available to resolve the problem.)

How to fix missing storage on File Explorer via Command Prompt

If, after trying the above recommendations, it's still not possible to access the storage, you can use the DiskPart command tool to completely clean the drive.

To use DiskPart with Command Prompt to clean a drive, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for Command Prompt, right-click the top result, and select the Run as administrator option.
3. Type the following command to start diskpart and press Enter: diskpart
4. Type the following command to list the available disks and press Enter: list disk
5. Type the following command to select the drive not showing up in File Explorer and press Enter: select disk 1

• In the command, select the correct drive. Otherwise, you may end up deleting the data in the wrong partition.

6. Type the following command to everything erase the drive and press Enter: clean

• Warning: The command will delete everything, including data, partition, type, and the drive will appear blank with the label unknown and not initialized.

7. Type the following command to create a partition using the available space and press Enter: create partition primary
8. Type the following command to select the newly created partition and press Enter: select partition 1
9. Type the following command to set the partition as active and press Enter: active
10. Type the following command to format the partition and press Enter: format FS=NTFS
11. Type the following command to assign a drive letter and press Enter: assign letter=D

In the command, change "D" for another drive letter not already in use.

12. Type the following command to close diskpart and press Enter: exit

Once you complete the steps, the drive will be formatted with the specified settings, and it should now appear in File Explorer and across applications.

More resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources: 

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

What you need to know

• Files, a third-party file management app on Windows 11, just received an update to version 3.5.
• The update changes the app's design to feature rounded corners and adds several new features.
• Among the additions are the option to hide the toolbar and the option to edit a file in Notepad by using the right click context menu.

Files is a third-party file management app available on Windows. The app has been on our radar for years and earned praise for its attractive design and feature set that often beats Microsoft's own File Explorer. Many of the features you see in File Explorer today, such as tabs, shipped first in Files. The third-party app just received an update to version 3.5 that adds more rounded corners and several new features.

The bump to version 3.5 is not massive, but it does bring some welcome changes to the app. The content area of Files is now separated from the status bar, toolbar, and preview pane. With that split comes the addition of some more rounded corners. Previously, only the top-left corner of the content area was rounded.

The change is subtle, but it makes it easier to distinguish between different portions of the app. The update also adds several actions and options, including the ability to right-click an item and Edit that document in Notepad. You can also hide the toolbar within the app starting with v3.5.

The app's developer outlines all of the changes on GitHub, and I have also listed them below.

Files v3.5: What's changed

• Updated the design with rounded corners
• Added an action to switch focus between panes
• Added an "Edit in notepad" option to the right click context menu
• Added a setting to configure the "Open in ide" button on the status bar
• Added support for "Thin acrylic" system backdrop
• Added support for running AHK files as admin
• Added support for hiding the toolbar
• Added support for displaying the total duration when selecting multiple video files
• Added support for closing the left pane in Dual Pane mode
• Added a network locations widget to the home page
• Hovering over items in OneDrive locations will now display a tooltip detailing the file’s current sync status
• Hovering over images will now display the dimensions in a tooltip
• Selecting a batch (.bat) file display an "Edit in Notepad" option on the toolbar
• Opening the log location will now close the Settings Dialog when Files is the default file manager
• Fixed crash that would occur when two paths were entered from the command line
• Fixed crash that would occur when ungrouping from zoomed out view
• Fixed an issue where a resize cursor was incorrectly shown at titlebar edges when Files was maximized
• Fixed an issue where empty folders could not be compressed into an archive
• Fixed an issue where it didn't work to switch between panes using a touch screen
• Fixed an issue where text on the Actions page wasn't responsive on smaller screens
• Fixed an issue where the focus was changed when quickly switching between tabs
• Fixed an issue with launching programs from the Address Bar
• Fixed an issue where search results would stop loading after switching between tabs
• Fixed an issue where the Toolbar didn't display properly in High Contrast
• Fixed an issue in Column View where the chevron didn't support High Contrast
• Fixed an issue where the Files logo was displayed incorrectly in High Contrast
• Fixed an issue where the app could crash when changing the theme
• Fixed an issue where entering certain commands into the Address Bar would change the format
• Fixed an issue with Nutstore cloud drive detection
• Fixed an issue where certain keys couldn't be mapped to Actions
• Fixed an issue where setting the desktop wallpaper didn't work on multiple monitors
• Fixed an issue where changing icons didn't work when admin access was required
• Fixed an issue with deleting items from zip files
• Fixed a potential crash when trying to locate the Libraries folder
• Fixed a potential crash when clicking items in the Quick Access widget
• Fixed a potential crash from occurring when deleting items

What you need to know

• The Files app just got a new update, bumping it to version 3.4.
• The update includes several new features, including background images, shortcut customization, real-time filtering, a Listary, and more.
• Windows 11's stock File Explorer is expected to get an AI-themed update, with reports indicating Qualcomm's new Snapdragon X Elite chip will be a requirement for the system.

Microsoft has undoubtedly been pushing significant updates and features to its File Explorer app in Windows 11 in the past few years. The same can also be said about its best third-party alternative, the Files app, which recently received a new update bumping it to version 3.4.

The update ships with new features and quality-of-life improvements, including background images, shortcut customization, real-time filtering, Listary, and more (via Neowin). 

Right off the bat, Files app users can create custom themes that can be used as the app's background. The background's opacity can be adjusted based on your preference.  

Files version 3.4 features a new settings page where you can modify key shortcuts to meet your specific needs and preferences, promoting effectiveness and efficiency. Perhaps the most notable addition to ship with the update is Listary — a powerful search tool that lets you access files and folders quickly. The search tool features a rich context menu that allows you to interact with files differently.

The new update also ships with real-time filtering, thus making it easier to find files that match your exact search entry. 

FILES APP V 3.4: CHANGES AND IMPROVEMENTS

• The Recent Files widget now respects the setting for displaying file extensions
• Improved the display of keyboard shortcuts in the Command Palette
• Added support to the sidebar for multiple SharePoint drives
• Added an integration for the Lucid Link cloud provider
• Added audio bitrate, and video to the list of properties in the Details Pane
• Fixed an issue where pinned items weren’t displayed in the sidebar
• Fixed an issue clicking the header in the details view wouldn’t change the sort direction
• Fixed an issue where the adaptive layout option wasn’t disabled when syncing layout settings
• Fixed an issue where changing the sort preferences didn’t work properly when syncing layout settings
• Fixed an issue where existing tabs would duplicate when opening a folder from outside of Files
• Fixed an issue where the Properties Window wouldn’t navigate between pages after returning from advanced settings
• Fixed an issue where the app would sometimes crash when entering characters into the Address Bar
• Fixed the alignment of the add tab button
• Fixed an issue where the Git submenu was sometimes shown for non-GitHub repos
• Fixed a crash that would sometimes occur when closing the GitHub login modal
• Fixed an issue where Recycle Bin wasn’t pinned to the Sidebar by default
• Fixed an issue where the View More and Open All options where disabled in the Tags widget
• Fixed an issue where the scroll position was sometimes incorrect
• Fixed an issue where “Scroll to previous folder” didn’t work in some folders
• Fixed an issue where HWiNFO64.exe wouldn’t open
• Fixed an issue where changing the focus in columns view caused an extra animation
• Fixed an issue where the app window wasn’t refocused if minimized on launch
• Fixed an issue where the conflicts dialog didn’t append numbers when pasting files
• Fixed an issue where renaming an item in the conflict dialog would leave the copy status in process
• Fixed an issue where the setting control margin was misaligned
• Fixed an issue with exporting tags
• Fixed an issue where certain drive icons didn’t load on the Drive Widget
• Fixed an issue where ftp addresses were not displayed in the Address Bar
• Fixed an issue where coping or moving a folder would cause the contents of the destination folder to be empty
• Fixed an issue where there wasn’t enough space to right click folders in columns view
• Fixed an issue where the wrong item was shown as active in the sidebar
• Fixed an issue where holding the arrow key would cause the Preview Pane to freeze
• Fixed an issue with editing properties of multiple items at the same time
• Fixed a conflict with svg thumbnails generated by PowerToys
• Fixed an issue of overlapping brushes leaving a gap in the columns view

While we're still on the File Explorer subject, the app is expected to get an AI-themed update in May. Interestingly, the update might not be available for everyone as Qualcomm's new Snapdragon X Elite chip is a requirement for the system to run. It's also expected to ship to new Arm PCs first. Here's everything we know about the AI File Explorer for Windows 11 so far. 

What you need to know

• It appears that Microsoft will bring back the ability to drag and drop an item from File Explorer into the address bar.
• The functionality is available starting with a recent Beta Channel Insider Build of Windows 11, though you have to enable the feature through ViVetool.
• Microsoft removed the ability to drag and drop content into the address bar of File Explorer when it shipped an updated File Explorer in Windows 11 version 23H2.

Microsoft is bringing back a File Explorer feature that many have missed but there's a chance you haven't used before. In the latest Beta Channel Insider Build of Windows 11, you can drag and drop an item from File Explorer into the address bar. The functionality requires some tinkering using ViVetool, but things look promising for the feature making a return.

The change was spotted by PhantomOcean3 on X (formerly Twitter), who also shared a video of the feature in action.

You may be surprised to hear that the feature needs to make a return, since dragging and dropping items into the File Explorer address bar was available for a long time in Windows 11. But Microsoft removed the feature when it shipped a new File Explorer with Windows 11 version 23H2.

The list of what's new with File Explorer on Windows 11 version 23H2 is impressive, including a new header, new details pane, a redesigned Home page, and improvements to sharing. The new File Explorer does, however, lack the ability to drag and drop items into its address bar. It seems that may not be the case with future versions of Windows.

Windows 11 24H2 will first ship on ARM PCs before rolling out to everyone later this year. Perhaps we'll see that update bring back dragging and dropping in File Explorer to the address bar. If not, we could see the feature in a future version of Windows.

Restoring removed features

This isn't the first time that Microsoft took away functionality and then brought it back. The company infamously took away the ability to drag and drop content into the Taskbar when it shipped Windows 11. That feature has since been added back into the operating system, but us users aren't always so lucky. For example, you still can't move the Taskbar on Windows 11 to the side or top of your screen.

I suppose saying Microsoft "removes" these features isn't entirely accurate. In many cases, Microsoft builds a new experience from the ground up, and it doesn't always add in all the functionality the predecessor had. In effect, end users lose a feature, but it's not like someone at Microsoft is laughing maniacally over taking features away. Microsoft prioritizes certain features based on telemetry data, user feedback, and its overarching vision for Windows. Sometimes the company has to work on the most important features right away and add things in later.

We've seen similar situations with the Taskbar, Start menu, and other parts of Windows 11. Of course, there are times when Microsoft removes features, such as the Windows Subsystem for Android, but those are usually taken out for different reasons.

What you need to know

• The Dropbox beta app for Windows is now available in the Microsoft Store for Windows 10 and Windows 11 users.
• It ships with a new experience that lets users access their saved files directly from the File Explorer or Taskbar. 
• It ships with support for x86, x64, and Arm64.

Dropbox recently launched a new beta version of its app for Windows 11 and Windows 10 users, accessible directly from the Microsoft Store. The app provides users with a secure place to save and access files from any device. It even allows you to share files with anyone.

The Dropbox folder for desktop ships with many capabilities, including faster uploads and easy access to all your stored files directly from your desktop. You can interact with the app and access your files directly from the File Explorer or Taskbar. You can also check the upload status of your files and recent activity by clicking on the Dropbox icon on the Taskbar.

Additionally, it'll hard drive space on your PC since it allows you to move locally stored files to online-only in Dropbox. Lastly, you can right-click your file while using the app to sign it, send it for signature, see version history, and more directly from your desktop. 

The new Dropbox beat app ships with many neat features

The app ships with support for the following features:

• Work with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Find files with content suggestions
• Add folder descriptions and to-dos
• Access work from any device

It's worth noting that there are two Dropbox apps in the Microsoft Store right now. More importantly, the Dropbox team says you can't use both apps simultaneously. You must uninstall one.

To access the new Dropbox beta app, you must run Windows 10 version 19044.0 or higher. It also supports x86, x64, and Arm64, making it a great fit for Qualcomm's much-anticipated Snapdragon X Elite processor. 

What you need to know

• Files is a popular third-party file manager available on Windows.
• The app just received an update to version 3.3 that adds a redesigned layout picker and improves thumbnail performance.
• Many features have appeared within Files over the years before similar options and designs being added to Microsoft's default File Explorer on Windows 11.

Files, a popular third-party file manager on Windows, just received several new features. A recent update bumps the app to version 3.3, and it adds a redesigned layout picker and DPI support for icons on the home page, tabs, and left-hand sidebar. As is usually the case, the update comes with a range of general improvements and fixes as well.

While all of the changes are welcome, it is a relatively small update in the grand scheme of things. It does, however, show another design element that Microsoft should take a look at when thinking about the next update to File Explorer.

Making a better File Explorer

We cover Files often around here. It's a beautiful app that shows what can happen when a developer and the community work hard to create an app. While I personally like Files, and speak to its creator frequently, I am aware that some have mixed experiences with the app. Performance has improved steadily over the years, but it does vary from system to system.

But to me Files isn't just about finding an app to replace the default File Explorer in Windows 11. It's about making a file manager that aligns with Windows 11 in terms of looks and functionality. Files had tabs before Microsoft added tabs to File Explorer. There are several similar examples of features that appeared first within Files and other third-party apps before Microsoft's own File Explorer.

The latest update to Files shows another example of a UI element that Microsoft honestly should have come up with before a third-party developer. Kudos to Yair, the maker of Files, for beating Microsoft to the punch.

Here's the complete change log for Files version 3.3, as shared on the app's blog.

What's new in Files 3.3

Redesigned layout picker

We refreshed the layout picker with a cleaner and more functional design. The layout options are now displayed in a single row with large buttons, and the selected layout is highlighted using the system accent color.

Beneath the the layout section, we added a slider to control the item sizes of the various views including Details, List, Grid, & Columns. Whether you prefer larger or smaller items, there is an option for your personal preference.

Thumbnail performance and DPI support

In v3.3, we continued working on thumbnail handling. While there is always room for improvement, you can anticipate a more reliable experience with fewer overall issues related to thumbnails.

When a thumbnail takes longer to load, a shimmer animation will be displayed to indicate that the content is loading. Additionally, we added DPI support for icons on the home page, tabs, and left-hand sidebar.

Added a settings page to manage layout preferences

We added a new settings page to simplify the management of your layout preferences. These options, formerly nested within submenus on the “Folders” settings page, are now more accessible and easier to locate. Additionally, the “Folders” page was renamed to “Files & folders”.

Continue where you left off when restarting Windows

Continue where you left off now works when Windows is restarted. Previously this feature only worked if you closed Files before restarting Windows.

Files 3.3 changes and improvements

• Updated the project to WinAppSdk 1.5
• Renamed the “Favorites” section on the sidebar to “Pinned”
• Added a header to the home page
• Replaced the string ‘Layout mode’ with the simplified term ‘Layout’
• Added a link to our Discord server on the about page
• A prompt for credentials will now be displayed when access is denied to a network share
• Added support for opening and extracting mrpack files
• Removed the icon placeholder for web shortcuts in favor of the new shimmer animation
• Removed the transition when loading items in the Grid View and List View layouts
• Fixed issue where item selection wasn’t working properly the List View layout
• Fixed issue where the “Open with” and “Send to” submenus didn’t appear properly in Widgets
• Fixed issue where copying an item from an archive didn’t work
• Fixed issue where hashes weren’t able to calculate
• Fixed issue where some files failed to load properties
• Fixed icon overlay alignment in the Details View layout
• Fixed issue where items couldn’t be dropped from 7-zip
• Fixed issue where drag and drop from Edge didn’t work
• Fixed issue where video bitrate was displayed in plain text
• Fixed issue where the window wasn’t always brought to the foreground
• Fixed issue where focus would incorrectly switch to new tab
• Fixed issue with drag and dropping items onto .ahk files
• Fixed SocketException in GitHelpers.RequireGitAuthenticationAsync
• Fixed NullReferenceException in Item_Opening
• Fixed NullReferenceException in CloseTab
• Fixed NullReferenceException in ShareItemsAsync
• Fixed NullReferenceException in DuplicateSelectedTabAction.ExecuteAsync

What you need to know

• Microsoft could soon integrate Copilot AI into its File Explorer's context menu on Windows 11.
• It will help users generate quick summaries of the content found in the files selected.
• The summarize feature isn't working because it is still under development.

Microsoft is fully betting on AI, and it's becoming more apparent that the company wants its users to leverage the technology across its products and services. Windows 11 is undoubtedly one of the leading beneficiaries of the AI wave, as is the case with the latest Windows 11 feature drop, which ships with more AI features for Copilot and much-needed changes to the Widgets board.

According to a report by Windows Latest, Microsoft Copilot could soon make its way to the File Explorer app on Windows 11. This doesn't seem to be a new development either. In January, longtime Microsoft watcher and Windows enthusiast PhantomOfEarth on X (formerly Twitter) also indicated that the tech giant was potentially planning on integrating its AI-powered assistant into the File Explorer after spotting a new velocity feature dubbed CopilotFEContextMenu in the Windows 11 Canary and Dev builds.

While not yet official, the new Copilot option in the File Explorer's context menu will help users generate quick summaries of documents. As shared by Windows Latest, the feature doesn't work as expected. This is usually the case when Microsoft is developing and testing a new feature, which explains why they are often behind code in Windows 11 builds.

When you click on a file in the File Explorer app on Windows 11 and select the Copilot option in the context menu, you'll be presented with the option to either  Send to Copilot or Summarize. The former option lets you send the entire file to the chatbot, where you can ask questions about the file, whereas the latter generates a quick summary of the file's contents. However, the option to summarize documents isn't available right now.

Will Copilot AI be the saving grace for Windows 11's flawed design?

Even if you're not impressed by the AI hype and don't find Microsoft Copilot particularly useful, Microsoft is inventing new and "convenient" locations to place it. How many times have you mistakenly launched the service while trying to check your notifications on your Windows 11 PC? I'd say a million times, but who's counting?

We recently ran a poll on Windows Central, asking our audience whether or not they find Copilot AI useful. Interestingly, half of our polled readers indicated they don't use the service entirely. Microsoft is also testing a new way to launch the chatbot on Windows 11 — hovering their mouse cursor over the Copilot icon on the taskbar will launch the service like an AI genie.

Microsoft recently redesigned the legacy File Explorer app, adding a modern touch and appeal to the platform, including a modern interface for folders and the sidebar and changes to the address and search bar. While these changes are welcome and much-needed, third-party software like the Files app or even Stardock's Start11, which acts as the best alternative for the Start menu on Windows 11, is quickly gaining popularity among users.

The tech giant has seemingly thrown a deaf ear to the complaints and issues pointed out by concerned users regarding the Start menu and File Explorer's flawed design on Windows 11. It'll be interesting to see how users will welcome the integration of Copilot AI into the File Explorer app. 

What you need to know

• Files is a popular third-party alternative to the built-in File Explorer on Windows.
• The Files app just received an update that brings it to version 3.2.
• The update adds a list view layout, adds the option to edit album covers through properties, and adds support for higher quality thumbnails.
• Several fixes and general improvements ship with the update as well.

Popular third-party file explorer Files just received an update that fixes one of its most frustrating issues. Following an update to version 3.2, the Files app should be more stable when navigating through large folders. The update also adds a list view for files and folders, brings the option to change album covers on media files, and adds support for higher quality thumbnails.

Files is not made by Microsoft, so it's not the File Explorer. But it is a file explorer. It's one of the more popular File Explorer alternatives available on Windows 11 and Windows 10. Many of the design elements and features seen in the Files app are highly requested features for the default File Explorer on Windows.

Replacing File Explorer on Windows

I've followed the development of the Files app for years, dating all the way back to when it was called Files UWP. I speak with its developer regularly and have used various beta versions of the app over the years. I love the design of Files and several of its features.

When I see people discuss the Files app, they usually laud its design and feature set. But performance of the app can vary from system to system. I've had good luck with the app on some computers and run into slower performance and stabilities issues on other PCs. The app has trended in the right direction at a good pace in my experience, and I like the changes seen in version 3.2.

• Related: How to get started with the Files app in Windows 11

I don't think Files is ready to completely replace File Explorer on Windows, but it can be a powerful and useful companion app. Files has unique features that make it more than a better-looking clone of File Explorer. For example, its tagging system is excellent and will be familiar to those who use macOS.

I also like the fact that a third-party file management app frequently delivers features before Microsoft's File Explorer. Apps like this can push development of first-party apps forward, which is good for all Windows users.

The developer of Files shared a change log of all the changes seen in version 3.2:

What's new in Files

• [Reduced] crashes when browsing large folders and when adding and deleting items.
• List View is a new layout option that lets you display more items while taking up less space. It only shows the icons and file names of your items, without any extra details.
• You can now change the album covers on media files directly from Files.
• We’ve enhanced the resolution and contrast of our thumbnail previews to make them more visually appealing and easy to identify.

Files 3.2 changes and improvements

• Added options to hide the built-in items from the right click context menu
• Added an option to disable auto scroll when navigating up the file tree
• Updated the search query to include unindexed items by default
• Creating a new file now adds it to the Recent Files list
• Creating a shortcut will now use the naming preferences from File Explorer
• Clicking a tag in the Details Pane will now start a search for other tagged items
• Added support for setting jfif files as the desktop & lockscreen background
• Improved the performance when launching Files in the background at Windows startup
• Improved support for high contrast themes
• Updated the cloud status icon in the Columns View
• Added support for pinning executable shortcuts to the Start Menu
• Fixed issue where updating the default layout wouldn’t refresh open tabs
• Fixed issue where renaming a tag wouldn’t save the new name
• Fixed issue where certain changes in the Properties Window couldn’t be canceled
• Fixed issue where switching from Details to Tiles would sometimes result in blurry icons
• Fixed issue where thumbnails would sometimes fail to load for OneDrive items
• Fixed issue where folder thumbnails wouldn’t display a preview of the contents
• Fixed issue where the Properties window was missing its icon
• Fixed issue where search results would sometimes use the Columns View
• Fixed issue where opening tags from the sidebar would default to the Details View
• Fixed issue where renaming items on a search page wouldn’t update the file list
• Fixed issue where the privacy policy link was broken
• Fixed issue where OneDrive files would automatically download
• Fixed issue where pinned applications were executed in %windir%\System32
• Fixed issue where smart extraction didn’t work correctly for a single folder
• Fixed issue where the path bar didn’t use localized name for system folders
• Fixed issue where directly opening a library would invoke explorer.exe
• Fixed environment variables expansion for shortcuts
• Fixed issue where folders sizes weren’t calculated when opening Properties from the sidebar
• Fixed issue where modified date was missing from the Properties window
• Fixed issue where it didn’t work to target files when creating new shortcuts
• Fixed issue where exiting from the system tray icon didn’t save the open tabs
• Fixed issue where a new tab would open when trying to open a new window
• Fixed issue where batch files couldn’t be previewed inside archives
• Fixed issue where installing multiple fonts would trigger multiple UAC prompts
• Fixed issue where refocusing Details View would sometimes scroll
• Fixed crash that would occur when displaying a large number of items at the same time
• Fixed crash that would occur when items were added from an external app
• Fixed crash that would occur when opening Properties for certain items in the Recent Files list
• Fixed crash that would occur when the app failed to update
• Fixed crash that would occur when renaming items in the Grid View layout
• Fixed crash that would occur when selecting the address bar via Shift + Tab
• Fixed crash that would occur when Git path contained an emoji
• Fixed crash that could occur when dragging in grouped grid layout

What you need to know

• The third-party file manager app "Files" just received a significant update, bumping it to version 3.1.
• The new update ships with many new features, including a System Tray Icon, Smart archive extract, Improved sorting, and more.  
• It also ships with a fix for the bug that caused the app to crash when navigating up in the column layout.

Microsoft launched Windows 11 more than two years ago. Since then, the company has shipped a ton of updates and features to the operating system to improve its overall user experience and potentially get users to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11.

RELATED: The state of Windows as 2023 comes to an end

Its adoption rate has been slow due to several reasons, including flaws in its design (particularly the Start menu, File Explorer, and other elements). Consequently, this has led to an increased number of third-party software designed to add a bit of flavor to these elements. It's worth noting that Microsoft is actively looking into making Windows 11's design better. Windows lead Mikhail Parakhin recently announced that the company is working on a fix for the most annoying things with the Start menu in Windows 11.

Stardock's Start11 is notoriously good at making up for the somewhat lackluster Start menu on Windows 11. The same goes for the Files app, which serves as the best File Explorer alternative for Windows 11.

READ MORE: How to get started with the Files app in Windows 11

According to a spot by Neowin, the Files app just received a major update, bumping it to version 3.1. The update ships with a plethora of nifty features, including a system tray icon designed to indicate that the app is running in the background and a smart archive extract feature, which will help select the best mode for extracting your archives. 

What's new in the Files App v3.1?

Here's the full changelog for the release:

• System Tray Icon. The Files app now has a tray icon indicating it is running in the background. In addition, the icon works as a shortcut to the documentation and the option to exit the app.
• Open Minimized. Version 3.1 lets you launch the Files app on startup in a minimized state. To do so, toggle on "Open Files on Windows Startup" and "Keep Files running in the background."
• Smart archive extract. The app can now automatically pick the best mode for extracting your archives. Files will unpack an archive with a single file into the current folder. Archives with multiple objects inside will be extracted into a new folder. You can use Smart Extract with the Ctrl + Shift + E shortcut or from the context menu.
• Improved sorting. You can now set the app to prioritize files on top of folders when sorting items.
• Drag and drop to open in a new tab. Files 3.1 lets you drag a folder on the title bar (tab strip) to open it in a new tab. You can even drag multiple folders to open each in a separate tab.

Other notable changes and fixes

• Added a prompt when trying to apply tags on non NTFS drives
• Improved the animation when expanding/collapsing sidebar sections
• Increased the number of suggestion in the search dropdown to 10 items
• Opening libraries in the columns view will treat them as root
• Added a 2gb splitting option when compressing files
• Added support for displaying recently entered paths
• Added an option to group items by day
• Added support for hiding compression options from the context menu
• Added an out-of-proc WinRT server for long-running background tasks
• Fixed an issue where third party licenses weren’t displayed
• Fixed crash that could occur when manipulating invalid images
• Fixed issue where options in the conflicts dialog would sometimes change when scrolling
• Fixed crash that could occur when failing to connect to GitHub
• Fixed the date in the file name when pasting clipboard content
• Fixed an issue where the selection would sometimes get reset in the rename text box
• Fixed an issue where resizing the window would reload the preview pane
• Fixed crash when navigating up in the column layout
• Fixed issue where “Reopen closed tab” was always disabled when right-clicking on tabs
• Fixed crash that could occur when trying to open Git settings
• Fixed issue where text was cut off in Tags flyout
• Fixed issue where the column headers weren’t always “sticky”
• Fixed issue where it wouldn’t work to open Files if a previous instance crashed
• Fixed exception that would sometimes occur when sharing items
• Fixed NullReferenceException when renaming files
• Fixed NullReferenceException in ColumnShellPage.NavigateToPath
• Fixed issue where batch files were opened as system
• Fixed the taskbar behavior in full screen mode
• Fixed COMException when removing focus from the path bar

Speaking of File Explorer in Windows 11, Microsoft could potentially bring its AI-powered assistant, Copilot to the app. This was after a code labeled "CopilotFEContextMenu" was recently discovered, alluding to an integration between Copilot and File Explorer.

Are you a fan of Windows 11's File Explorer app? Share with us what you hate or like most about the platform in the comments.

What you need to know

• Microsoft recently issued a fix for an annoying Windows 11 bug that was affecting the File Explorer, causing it to pop up at the front of your screen at random intervals without launching it.
• The issue was first reported by users last year when the Windows 11 Moment 2 update dropped.
• Microsoft has finally fixed this issue after 15 months via December's cumulative update (KB5033375).

Have you ever been working on your PC and Windows 11's File Explorer randomly popped up in the foreground without you launching it? According to a spot by the folks over at Windows Latest, this is a bug that has impacted Windows 11 users for over fifteen months.

The issue was first flagged by several users when Microsoft shipped the Windows 11 Moment 2 update in October 2022. As you may recall, the update shipped with a ton of nifty features as well as quality-of-life improvements, including a modernized File Explorer design.

Microsoft has been aware of this rather odd bug affecting the File Explorer app on Windows 11 and has finally shipped a fix for it via December's cumulative update (KB5033375). As highlighted by the company in the changelog for this release:

"This update addresses an issue that affects File Explorer windows. When you do not expect them, they appear in the foreground."

While I haven't encountered this issue, per Windows Latest's testing and examination, the bug causes the File Explorer to pop up at the front of your screen at random intervals. In the worst-case scenario, it may occur every hour. What's more, it happens regardless of the software or app you're currently using and draws your focus from the activity you were engaged with.

15 months seems like a long time to wait for a fix

Microsoft taking a little over a year (which seems like an eternity) to patch this issue seems like a stretch. Not forgetting that this is an annoying bug and a great cause of irritation since it randomly interrupts your workflow.

RELATED: How to get started with the Files app on Windows 11 to replace File Explorer

It also raised a lot of concern among several users, who misconstrued it as a potentially malicious and sophisticated attack by hackers. This in turn prompted them to run virus scans on their PCs, which was entirely unnecessary.

Did you encounter this issue before it was patched? Let us know in the comments.

What you need to know

• Microsoft started rolling out the Windows 11 September 26, 2023 Update this week.
• The update adds several features to File Explorer, including a redesigned header, a new details pane, and a redesigned home page.
• File Explorer also lost the ability to drag and drop a file into the address bar as part of its update.

The Windows 11 September 26, 2023 Update with Copilot adds several features to the operating systems. Among the improvements are multiple redesigned elements within File Explorer. Unfortunately, the update also removes the ability to drag and drop an item into a tab within File Explorer.

Microsoft updated the codebase of File Explorer in the latest Windows 11 update. That's mostly a good thing as the end result is a modern File Explorer with an improved header, details pane, and home page. File Explorer also has a new gallery feature that makes it easier to manage your images. Microsoft even tossed in support for RAR and 7-Zip to improve file management.

While the new File Explorer is better overall, it now lacks a feature that some used to organize files. With previous versions of File Explorer, you could drag an item into the address bar to move it. Microsoft took that option out when it updated File Explorer in the Windows 11 September 26, 2023 Update.

The folks over at Windows Latest spotted the omission. I was surprised to see the change, but my testing shows the same thing. The feature was useful in a few different use cases, including dragging a file from one folder into an open folder in another tab.

Microsoft has removed features before, especially when moving from one codebase to another. There's a chance that drag and drop into the address bar was used infrequently. There's also a chance that Microsoft will add it back in the future. 

What you need to know

• Microsoft just released Windows 11 Build 22621.2050 and Build 22631.2050 to Insiders in the Beta Channel.
• The update includes a gigantic change log full of new features and improvements, including a modernized File Explorer, support for Dynamic Lighting, and improvements to Windows Ink.
• Build 22621.2050 has new features off by default and Build 22631.2050 has new features enabled.

Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel have a pair of builds available. Windows 11 Build 22621.2050 (new features off by default) and 22631.2050 (new features on by default) both shipped today. The update brings a massive number of changes to Windows 11, including new features and improvements. I've broken down the highlights below, but Microsoft has an extensive blog post on the builds that's worth checking out as well.

Arguably the biggest change is the addition of the modernized File Explorer. Those with Azure Active Directory accounts will see a carousel of recommended files. Those with a Microsoft account will see an improved experience for Quick Access folders.

Dynamic Lighting is also a major addition in this update. Microsoft adopted an open standard for lighting that should make it easier to control and sync RGB lighting. Acer, ASUS, HP, HyperX, Logitech, Razer, and Twinkly all have devices that work with the feature.

Inking improvements, a better volume mixer, and an improved Windows Spotlight are all available in the build as well. Here are the highlights from Microsoft:

Build 22631.2050: What's new

File Explorer Home, Address Bar, and Details Pane

Now that File Explorer is powered by Windows App SDK, we are introducing a modernized File Explorer Home powered by WinUI. Recommended files for users signed into Windows with an Azure Active Directory (AAD) account will be displayed as a carousel and support file thumbnails which is coming soon. Quick Access folders (available by default for users signed into Windows with a Microsoft account), Favorites, and Recent also bring in an updated experience with WinUI.

We are also introducing a modernized address bar and search box to File Explorer. The new address bar intelligently recognizes local vs. cloud folders with built-in status. For OneDrive users, you’ll notice the address bar now contains your OneDrive sync status and quota flyout.

And we are introducing a modernized details pane in File Explorer (ALT + Shift + P) designed to help you easily access related content, stay up to date with file activity, and collaborate without even opening a file.

Dynamic Lighting

Dynamic Lighting provides Windows users and developers with native control of Lighting Devices implementing the open HID LampArray standard. By adopting an open standard, and by working with our OEM and ODM partners,  Microsoft seeks to improve the RGB device and software ecosystem for users by increasing interoperability of devices and apps. Included are APIs for Windows apps to control devices from the background and foreground, as well as a page in Windows Settings for users to customize how their devices behave.

Improvements for Windows Ink

Windows Ink is being modernized to allow users to enable inking directly onto edit fields. In addition, we are improving the accuracy from the recognition technology and a scratch out gesture for when users need to make edits. The goal with Windows Ink is to let users use their pen and handwrite anywhere they can type on their Windows device.

Currently, these new Windows Ink improvements support English (U.S.) only but stay tuned for broader language support. This new experience can be managed via Settings > Bluetooth and devices > Pen and Windows Ink under “Shell Handwriting”. And please check out some of the known issues for Windows Ink below.

New volume mixer experience in Quick Settings 

We’re introducing a new enhanced volume mixer into Quick Settings! The updated audio quick settings experience brings a modern volume mixer that allows for quick customization of audio on a per-app basis, with additional control to swap devices on the fly. We’ve also added a new keyboard shortcut (WIN + CTRL + V) to bring you directly to the volume mixer for faster control of the experience. With this change, you can now tailor your audio experience better with more control and fewer clicks to better manage your favorite apps.

Improving Windows Spotlight

We are rolling out improvements to the Windows Spotlight experience including preview images to , full screen, multiple opportunities to learn more about each image and a minimized experience. To open the Windows Spotlight experience, right-click on the Spotlight icon on the desktop. You can also double click on the icon to directly launch a Bing landing page for more info on each image.

Passwordless Improvements

Microsoft believes that the future is passwordless. Passkeys are a simple and more secure replacement for passwords when you sign into a web site or application that supports them. Passkeys represent a future where bad actors will have a much harder time stealing and using your credentials when signing into a web site or application. Passkeys are phish-resistant, recoverable, and faster for users.

Unsafe password copy and paste warnings

Starting in Windows 11, version 22H2, Enhanced Phishing Protection in Microsoft Defender SmartScreen helps protect Microsoft school or work passwords against phishing and unsafe usage on sites and apps. We are trying out a change starting with this build where users who have enabled warning options for Windows Security under App & browser control > Reputation-based protection > Phishing protection will see a UI warning on unsafe password copy and paste, just as they currently see when they type in their password.

Narrator Natural Voices

We are introducing new natural voices in Chinese, Spanish (Spain and Mexico), Japanese and English (United Kingdom) that allow Narrator users to comfortably browse the web, read, and write mail, and do more. Natural Narrator voices use modern, on-device text to speech and once downloaded are supported without an internet connection.

Local File Sharing Improvements

We have made some improvements to the built-in Windows share window and nearby sharing for sharing local files from your PC.

Those improvements include:

• We have redesigned the Windows share window to better match the Windows 11 design principles.
• Everyone will now be able to email their files through Outlook directly within the Windows share window. Just click on the Outlook icon under the “Share using” section of the Windows share window.
• The Windows share window now has a search box so you can now search for contacts across Outlook to share a file and the Windows share window will now display 8-10 suggested contacts to quickly share to – including emailing yourself a file.
• Instead of a dropdown, you will see a button to turn on nearby sharing.
• For nearby sharing, you will find your own PCs at the top of discovered devices under “Nearby Share”.
• Files will share faster from one PC to another using Wi-Fi Direct.

Build 22631.2050: Changes & Improvements

General

• If a camera streaming issue is detected such as a camera failing to start or a closed camera shutter, a pop-up dialog will appear with the recommendation to launch the automated Get Help troubleshooter to resolve the issue.
• Urgent or important notifications that break through when do not disturb is turned on while using apps at full screen will now display a “view notification” button to view the content of the notification for privacy.

Taskbar & System Tray

• The settings for never combined mode for the taskbar are showing up under Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors in this build however they currently do not enable the experience. This will be fixed in a future Beta Channel flight soon.
• The ability to end task when right-clicking an app on the taskbar should be working correctly in this build and can be managed under Settings > System > For developers.

Emoji

• The Unicode Emoji 15 is beginning to roll out to Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel. Users will now be able to see, search for and insert new emoji from the emoji panel. Here are a few of our Emoji 15 designs which include more hearts, animals and one new smiley face.

Task View & Desktops

• When navigating between desktops in Task View (WIN + CTRL + left or right arrows), labels will be shown. New sliding animations will also show when you change your desktops using trackpad gestures, touch gestures, hotkeys and by clicking on the Task View flyout.

Voice Access

• Voice access is now available via the accessibility flyout on the Lock screen.

Settings

• We’ve added an additional energy recommendation under Settings > System > Power & battery > Energy recommendations for adjusting refresh rate to conserve energy.
• Updated the design of the lists displayed under Settings > Apps > Startup Apps and Settings > Apps > Advanced App Settings > App Execution Alias pages to be more consistent with other Settings pages.

As was revealed a handful of weeks ago, Microsoft is currently working on a significant update to File Explorer on Windows 11 that will update several core areas of the app with modern designs and new features that will better integrate the experience with OneDrive and Microsoft 365.

Internal mock-ups obtained by Windows Central reveal that the updated app will feature a redesigned header with a modern file directory box, a modern search box, and a new "home" button. The existing header buttons, such as "new," "copy," and "paste," will be moved into the file/folder view just below the header.

The home page itself is being updated with more integration with Microsoft 365. Along the top will be a feed of "recommended" files, which will be presented with larger thumbnails that will make it easier to see what files are being suggested to you. 

Even the left-side navigation is being updated with more modern code, rounded highlight buttons, and more. The details pane is also getting a significant update to align with the rest of File Explorer, including integration with Microsoft 365 and a richer experience for seeing file details.

The deeper integration with Microsoft 365 means users can see email threads and recent comments about files shared via the cloud across multiple colleagues or attached via email. This info will be visible at a glance on files that are being shared or via the details pane.

I'm told that many of the updates to these areas of File Explorer will also aid in making it more friendly for touch users.

Additionally, Microsoft is working on a more rich photo viewing experience for File Explorer via a new "Gallery" area. Users should be able to mouse over to view larger previews of photos. I've also heard that Microsoft is toying with bringing "tagging" to File Explorer, which would allow users to organize and categories specific files using keywords and colors, similar to what macOS offers in its Finder app.

If Microsoft can deliver its plans, these changes will result in the most significant update to File Explorer since Windows 8, which shipped over 10 years ago. Microsoft's goal is to have the new File Explorer remain familiar to users while still updating all its surfaces with a fresh, consistent design and modern code. 

I'm told Microsoft is aiming to get most of this rejuvenated File Explorer experience out to users before the end of 2023, meaning it will likely show up in an upcoming Moment update over the summer or as part of the 23H2 release this fall.

What you need to know

• Microsoft just released Windows 11 Build 25136 to Insiders in the Dev Channel.
• The build includes tabs in File Explorer, dynamic widgets content on the taskbar, and an improved navigation experience within File Explorer.
• Some of the features are in a controlled rollout, so they won't be available to all Dev Channel Insiders.

Windows 11 Build 25136 recently shipped to Insiders in the Dev Channel. The build includes several new features, including tabs within File Explorer, an improved system for navigating files, and dynamic widgets content on the taskbar. It also includes a long list of fixes and general improvements over the previous Insider build of Windows 11.

Here are the highlights from the build, as listed by Microsoft:

• "We have begun rolling out File Explorer tabs and navigation updates to Windows Insiders. Details below. We have also begun rolling out an update for Widgets that will show dynamic content on the taskbar.
• As always, this build includes a good set of fixes that improve the overall experience for Windows Insiders on the latest preview builds.
• We added one new known issue and still have a set of others – be sure to read the known issues below.
• We have Notepad and Media Player updates rolling out to Windows Insiders – see this blog post for details."

You can read the complete list of changes, fixes, and improvements in Microsoft's blog post about the build.

Tabs have been a highly requested feature for File Explorer for several years. The title bar of File Explorer now shows tabs for navigation, much like Microsoft Edge and several other popular applications.

In the latest build, Windows 11 shows dynamic content from widgets in the taskbar. For example, stock updates and weather information will show in the corner of your screen. You can then click on the content to see more information through respective widgets.

Note that some of the features in this build, such as tabs in File Explorer and dynamic widget content, are part of controlled rollouts. That means that even if you're a Dev Channel Insider, you may not have access to the features at this time.

Our senior editor Zac Bowden runs through all of the new features in his most recent hands-on video.

What you need to know

• File Explorer is getting several new features and updates in the coming months.
• New experiences include an updated home page, pinned files, contextual dialogs, and tabs.
• Many of these experiences are already in testing with Insiders in the Dev and Beta Channels.

Microsoft has today announced and highlighted several new features and experiences that are coming to the File Explorer on Windows 11 in the coming months. Most of these new features are already in testing with Windows Insiders in the Dev and Beta Channels, including an updated home page layout with pinned files and recent activity, an updated share dialog that is more contextual, and better integration with OneDrive for home or work use.

One big feature that isn't yet in testing with Insiders officially has also been confirmed, that being tabs in File Explorer, a feature that has long been requested by users. This feature leaked a handful of weeks ago, but it was unclear if the feature would ever ship or if it was just an internal experiment never intended to see the light of day. Now we can rest easy, as Microsoft has confirmed it's officially coming at some point.

"At some point" is the key phrase here, as Microsoft is not committing to a timeline for release for any of the features being announced or highlighted. Microsoft may opt to save all these improvements for the upcoming 22H2 release, expected some time this fall, or it may decide to ship these features as a feature drop for the already shipping version of Windows 11 in the summer. At this point, we just don't know.

Microsoft is also highlighting a new contextual experiences, using the share dialog as an example. Sharing a file in File Explorer will attempt to automatically suggest contacts that you might want to share with, reducing the amount of clicks and time spend sending a file to a colleague. The company says it's working contextual experiences like this into all areas of the OS, including Start, Microsoft 365 apps, and more.

Other areas of the OS that the company highlighted today include improvements to Focus Assist, now just called "Focus," integrated with the Action Center. Users will be able to start a Focus Sessions in just a few clicks without needing to open the Clock app first, keeping you in your flow and allowing you to remain focused on your work. There's also the new snap layouts, now featuring a drop down layouts bar that appears when moving windows around for easy snapping.

Microsoft also announced several other new features and plans for Windows at its hybrid work event. The company is planning to integrate Windows 365 experiences with the local Windows desktop experience, and is also bringing more camera features to users via dedicated neural processing units found in compatible PCs. It's also highlighting several new security advances for Windows 11 commercial customers.

Windows enthusiasts rejoiced — or at least were pleasantly surprised — by the news that Microsoft appears to have plans to bring tabs to the File Explorer. Insiders discovered hidden functionality for the File Explorer in the latest preview build of the OS. In their current state, tabs look nice but only support basic features. That's to be expected since Microsoft hasn't officially announced them. While not fully functional, it appears that tabs will make their way to Windows 11 at some point in the near future.

People have requested tabs in the File Explorer for a long time, and we actually almost got it a few years ago. Back in 2017 and 2018, Microsoft worked on a feature called Sets. Rather than just adding tabs to the File Explorer, Sets added tabs to any app on Windows. It integrated with Edge and was designed to place apps, web apps, and other types of programs side-by-side. While Sets wasn't made exclusively for the File Explorer, it could be used to have a tabbed interface for managing files.

Sets was in working state in Windows 10 Build 17618, but it was ultimately canceled. Microsoft never shared its reasoning for dropping support for the feature. With the death of Sets, Microsoft also killed off tabs within the File Explorer, much to the chagrin of Windows enthusiasts. It doesn't seem like Microsoft will bring back Sets, but the company does appear to have plans for bringing tabs back to the File Explorer.

Our question is if Microsoft has taken things far enough when it comes to tabs. Are you content with the company only adding tabs to the File Explorer, or would you like to see Sets return? Perhaps you don't like tabs at all. Whatever your opinion may be, we'd love to hear from you through this week's poll and in the comments below.

What you need to know

• Windows 11 Build 22572 is live and contains a host of new features.
• Tabs in the File Explorer is the big one for this release, though it's not yet official (you won't find it in the changelog).
• New apps and utilities are also in the build, including the integration of Clipchamp.

People have waited a long time for this moment and their patience has been rewarded: Tabs in the File Explorer. Windows 11 Build 22572 finally brings the requested feature to users, though it's not part of the build's changelog. You can see the tabulated glory firsthand in our video, but the gist is straightforward enough: No longer will you have to spam File Explorer windows to see multiple things. Now you can just add a new tab without losing your initial search results. Innovation!

There's also a new Family app built right into the build that gives you the ability to keep track of family members. Just add their Microsoft account to the app and you'll be able to set up content filters, screentime limits, get location notifications, and more. We show off the whole gamut of Family app utilities in the hands-on, in the event you want the full scoop.

In other news, Quick Assist can now be updated by the Microsoft Store, which is handy. And there's Clipchamp, otherwise known as Microsoft's video editing service acquisition from a few months ago that has now integrated into Windows 11 as a preloaded web app for your editing needs. It's nowhere near as robust or utility-loaded as more dedicated video editors on the market, but as a preloaded option, it's handy for making quick, bite-sized content (clips, if you will).

There's even more under the hood of Build 22572, so watch the hands-on for a thorough exploration of the latest big features as well as the interesting minutia.

What you need to know

• Files, a file manager for Windows, just received a major update to version 2.
• The update adds support for columns, compact overlay mode, and improves the speed of the app.
• Files works on both Windows 10 and Windows 11, but it looks best on Windows 11.

Files, a third-party file explorer for Windows, just received a major update. The update brings the app to v2.0 and adds a new column layout, a redesigned right-click context menu, and several performance improvements. The update to Files arrives just one day before the launch of Windows 11. Files works on both Windows 11 and Windows 10 but looks best on the new operating system from Microsoft, according to the app's developer.

A blog post by the app's developer, Yair Aichenbaum, highlights the new features in Files v2.0, including column view, tags, and support for custom themes. Here's everything that's new, according to the app's changelog:

• Added a column layout
• Redesigned the right click context menu
• Improved support for libraries
• Improved item enumeration speed
• Improved the design of the preview pane
• Improved the search feature
• Added details when moving & deleting items
• Added support for canceling file operations
• Improved behavior when opening new tabs
• Allow dragging items without selecting them first
• Added advanced options for solving conflicts when transferring files
• Added the ability to create a folder with the current selection
• Display more details when hovering the mouse over a file
• Clicking the up button in the root directory now navigates to the home page
• Added a setting to always open folders in a new tab
• Added support for using executables as drop targets
• Added support for grouping folder contents
• Added keyboard shortcuts for changing the layout mode
• Added support for copying, moving, and renaming items as administrator
• Added support for changing file permissions
• Added support for browsing and extracting archives
• Added compact overlay mode
• Added FTP support

We've followed the development of Files for quite some time. We reviewed the app back when it was in preview and have followed its updates leading up to the release of Files v2.0.

If you'd like to find out more about Files and its development, you can hop into the Files Discord channel for a Q&A at 10 AM EST on October 4, 2021.

What you need to know

• Files just received an update to version 1.5.
• The update includes several improvements and new features, including adaptive layout modes.

Files, previously known as Files UWP, is a beautiful third-party modern file explorer for Windows 10. I've followed its development for quite some time, and it's recently been updated to version 1.5. The update adds several new features, including adaptive layout modes, the ability to collapse the sidebar, and much more.

Here's a look at everything that's new in version 1.5, as found on its GitHub page:

• F1 shortcut now opens the Files Wiki (#3647)
• Added collapsible sections to the sidebar (#3661)
• Added the ability to add the Home directory as a startup page (#3715)
• Added a WSL section to the sidebar (#3782)
• Added a library section to the sidebar (#3761)
• Made some enhancements to the bundles widget (#3637)
• Added adaptive layout modes (#3526)
• Added support for custom themes (#3890)
• Added the option to drag items between bundles (#3901)
• Added ability to launch Files with relative paths from command line (#3877)
• Added folder previews to the preview pane (#3773)
• Added the option to close tabs to the right (#3929)
• Added support for collapsing the sidebar (#3895)
• Moved selection and layout options to toolbar (#4135)
• Improved windowing/tab behavior when launching Files though different methods (#3854)
• Added the ability to pin folders to the start menu (#4059)
• Added the option to delete items as administrator (#4203)

Overall, the update makes the app much more capable. It still isn't as powerful as the default File Explorer on Windows 10, but each update makes it a bit more usable. If you aren't a power user, you might be able to swap over to Files. Even if you are a power user, it has some features for you, such as the option to add the WSL section to the sidebar.

On Windows 10, File Explorer can display various sizes of thumbnail images for files, folders, documents, pictures, and videos. This feature provides a quick preview of content without the need to open each item.

While this visual aid allows for faster file identification without referencing file names, rendering and caching these previews can consume system resources. This is particularly noticeable in directories containing a large number of images.

If your device experiences delays when loading these previews, if you're troubleshooting an issue, or if you prefer not to use this feature, Windows 10 offers multiple methods to disable thumbnails. By doing so, File Explorer will display default file icons instead. You can complete this configuration through File Explorer settings, the Settings app, or Group Policy.

In this how-to guide, I'll outline the steps to disable (and enable) thumbnails for files on File Explorer.

How to enable or disable thumbnails using File Explorer

On Windows 10, the easiest way to turn thumbnail previews for files on or off is to use the File Explorer settings.

Disable file thumbnails

To disable thumbnails, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the View tab.
3. Click the Options button.

4. Click the View tab.
5. Check the "Always show icons, never thumbnails" option under the "Advanced settings" section to disable the feature.

6. Click the Apply button.
7. Click the OK button.

Once you complete the steps, files will appear as icons without previews.

Enable file thumbnails

If you ended up in this guide because thumbnails are not showing on File Explorer, it's possible that the feature was accidentally disabled, either because of a system update or some other reason.

To enable thumbnails for files on Windows 10, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the View tab.
3. Click the Options button.

4. Click the View tab.
5. Clear the "Always show icons, never thumbnails" option under the "Advanced settings" section to enable the feature.

6. Click the Apply button.
7. Click the OK button.

After you complete the steps, previews will now appear for files in File Explorer. If, after adjusting the settings, you don't see the thumbnails, then restart File Explorer and repeat the instructions one more time.

How to enable or disable thumbnails using Settings

You can also use the Settings app to access the visual effects settings that allow you to enable or disable thumbnail previews, among other appearance and performance effects.

Disable file thumbnails

To disable the thumbnails for files using the visual effects settings, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on System.
3. Click on About.
4. Click the Advanced system settings option in the right pane under the "Related settings" section.

5. Click the Advanced tab.
6. Click the Settings button under the "Performance" section.

7. Click the Visual Effects tab.
8. Clear the "Show thumbnails instead of icons" option.

9. Click the Apply button.
10. Click the OK button.

Once you complete the steps, File Explorer will no longer show thumbnails for files.

Enable file thumbnails

To use the visual effects settings to re-enable thumbnails, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on System.
3. Click on About.
4. Click the Advanced system settings option in the right pane under the "Related settings" section.

5. Click the Advanced tab.
6. Click the Settings button under the "Performance" section.

7. Click the Visual Effects tab.
8. Check the "Show thumbnails instead of icons" option.

9. Click the Apply button.
10. Click the OK button.

After you complete the steps, files should appear with the respective previews in File Explorer.

How to enable or disable thumbnails using Group Policy

Alternatively, you can even manage the display of thumbnail previews using Group Policy.

Disable file thumbnails

To disable thumbnails with Group Policy, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for gpedit.msc and click OK to open the Local Group Policy Editor.
3. Browse the following path: User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > File Explorer
4. On the right side, double-click the "Turn off the display of thumbnails and only display icons" policy.

• Quick note: Using Group Policy, you can also choose to only disable thumbnails for network folders with the "Turn off the display of thumbnails and only display icons on network folders" policy.

5. Select the Enabled option.

6. Click Apply. 
7. Click OK.

Once you complete the steps, users will no longer see thumbnails for files while the policy remains enabled.

Enable file thumbnails

To show previews for files with Group Policy, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for gpedit.msc and click OK to open the Local Group Policy Editor.
3. Browse the following path: User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > File Explorer
4. On the right side, double-click the "Turn off the display of thumbnails and only display icons" policy.

5. Select the Not configured option.

6. Click Apply. 
7. Click OK.

After you complete the steps, thumbnail previews will be available for files in File Explorer. If you can't see the previews, you may need to restart the device to apply the changes.

Whatever method you choose to disable thumbnails, remember to use the same method to re-enable the feature. If you still have problems displaying previews, these steps may resolve the issue.

More resources

Find in-depth guides, troubleshooting tips, and the latest updates on Windows 11 and 10 here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Windows 10's built-in File Explorer is like my grandparents' old car. It was reliable and lasted a long time, but it wasn't a looker. The File Explorer is a critical part of many people's workflows and is used for everything from file management to just browsing through things on your PC. While functional, the Windows 10 File Explorer is in dire need of a modern refresh. In comes Files UWP - Preview, a UWP-based file explorer that merges file management with modern design.

Files UWP - Preview rolled out to the public during Launch 2020. I've been in touch with its developer, Yair Aichenbaum, for ages and have seen the app come a long way. While Files UWP - Preview isn't finished, it's progressed enough to warrant a closer look.

Files UWP - Preview is free from the Microsoft Store. It's in preview at the moment, so some bugs and issues are expected. For this piece, I mainly focus on design and functionality and skip over a few bugs since I'm in a beta build of a preview app.

A universal file explorer

Files UWP - Preview

Free

Bottom line: Files UWP - Preview is a gorgeous file explorer that should make Microsoft jealous. It's in its early stages now but is off to an excellent start.

Pros:

• Gorgeous design
• Supports tabs
• Continues to add features
• Fits right in on Windows 10

Cons:

• Lacks features from Windows 10's built-in File Explorer
• Can be slow at times
• Currently has some bugs while in preview

• See at Microsoft

A gorgeous way to manage files

My first impression of Files UWP - Preview was how much it looked like it belongs on Windows 10. It utilizes Fluent Design, has light and dark modes, and has icons that match the rest of Windows 10. It looks like what I'd expect a file explorer to look like on Windows 10, rather than a dated app that looks like it's from over a decade ago.

But Files UWP - Preview isn't just pretty, it adds features and functionality that many have requested from Windows 10's built-in File Explorer. The biggest addition is tab support. You can open up new tabs to keep multiple folders and file locations open at the same time. Unfortunately, you can't drag and drop between these tabs at the moment, though I've been told by its developer that this is being worked on.

It's also much more touch-friendly than Windows 10's File Explorer. It has large touch targets that don't require a mouse and keyboard. That being said, the targets aren't so large that it's awkward to use with a mouse and keyboard. I've used it on my touchscreen laptop for quite some time and found both forms of input to work well.

Big shoes to fill

Files UWP - Preview has some massive shoes to fill. Windows 10's built-in File Explorer is a critical part of people's workflow, whether they're professional creators or casual users. Unlike some apps that are trying to create a unique experience, Files UWP - Preview is trying to replicate Windows 10's File Explorer while adding functionality and looking better. That's a tall order that Files UWP - Preview meets in many ways. It looks great, works pretty well, and has a lot of the functionality that you'd ask for in a file explorer, but it's not quite there yet as an everyday tool for me.

The app can take a bit to load file locations and folders at times. I can't say if that's because on a beta version of the software or not, but it can feel like it's hanging while it searches for files. These pauses have generally become slower and less frequent over time, and I hope that trend continues.

It shouldn't be too surprising that Files UWP - Preview isn't a full File Explorer replacement yet. The Windows 10 File Explorer is so complex and needs to be so good that Microsoft hasn't come out with a new one or a major revamp in years. We'll get one in Windows 10X, but at one point Windows 10X had three separate File Explorers, so it seems like a complicated app to replace.

It's an ambitious task to replace a built-in part of Windows 10, and I think Aichenbaum and Luke Blevins, who are both project leads of Files UWP Preview, do a good job. I'm also impressed with how the app's development has trended. I started using Files UWP - Preview months before it came out as part of Launch 2020, and it's grown a lot since then. Development also seems to have sped up since it became publicly available.

Should you try Files UWP - Preview?

Files UWP - Preview looks much better than the built-in Files Explorer of Windows 10. It's touch-friendly and mouse-friendly, meaning it works well on desktops, laptops, or tablets. The app also adds in some nifty functionality, such as tab support. It's fun to play around with and I think in some situations could be part of a workflow. I plan to keep on using it, and think I'd use it much more if I had a tablet rather than a touchscreen laptop.

Does that mean you can fully replace the built-in Files Explorer with Files UWP - Preview? No, at least not right now. Some features aren't there yet, and others need improving. The app is still in preview, so we'll have to see how it develops over time. If it keeps trending in the same direction, I could see it being some people's main file explorer in the future.

On Windows 10, File Explorer is an essential app with a simple user interface for navigating, accessing, and organizing your files, folders, and apps stored on your device, external drives, and anywhere in the network.

If you have experience using older versions of Windows, you know that the file management system has been around for a long time. However, over the years, it has received many changes, and features have been removed. The basic functionality, however, remains unchanged.

Although File Explorer is relatively easy to use, there are many features and settings that can help you be a little more productive on Windows 10.

In this how-to guide, I'll outline the best tips and tricks for being more productive with File Explorer.

How to open File Explorer on Windows 10

On Windows 10, you can open File Explorer in several ways, including:

• Clicking the File Explorer icon in the taskbar.
• "Windows key + E" keyboard shortcut.
• Clicking the File Explorer icon in the navigation pane of the Start menu.
• Searching for File Explorer in the Start menu.
• Using the "explorer" command in the Run command.
• Right-click the Start button and select the "File Explorer" option.

How to set This PC as startup page on File Explorer

To change the start location in File Explorer, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the Options button from the "View" tab.
3. Select the This PC option from the "Open File Explorer to" drop-down menu.

4. Click the Apply button.
5. Click the OK button.

Once you complete the steps, File Explorer will open on This PC for faster access to your files, local drives, and network shares.

How to show file extensions on File Explorer

To show extensions for files in File Explorer, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the Options button from the "View" tab.
3. Click the View tab.
4. Clear the "Hide extension for known file types" option.

5. Click the Apply button
6. Click the OK button.

Alternatively, check the "File name extensions" option from the File Explorer's ribbon "View" tab.

How to show hidden files on File Explorer

To show files with the hidden attribute set to enabled on Windows 10, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the Options button from the "View" tab.
3. Click the View tab.
4. Select the "Show hidden files, folders, and drives" option under the "Hidden files and folders" section.

5. (Optional) Clear the "Hide protected operating system files" option.

• Quick tip: This option is usually only used to troubleshoot problems with system files on Windows 10.

5. Click the Apply button
6. Click the OK button.

Alternatively, check the "Hidden items" option from the File Explorer's ribbon "View" tab.

How to customize Quick Access on File Explorer

File Explorer offers quick access to the locations you navigate most frequently from the left pane. Then there's the quick access toolbar in the top-left corner, which you can customize for quicker access to commands like undo, redo, and delete.

Quick access on the navigation pane

To add or remove locations to Quick access in File Explorer, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Browse to the location that includes the folder you want to pin to Quick Access.
3. Select the folder.
4. Click the Pin to Quick access button from the "Home" tab.

• Quick tip: You can also browse the folder location, right-click the "Quick Access" item, and select the "Pin current folder to Quick access" option.

5. (Optional) Right-click the folder and select the "Unpin from the Quick Access" option to remove it under the "Quick Access" section.

After you complete the steps, you may need to repeat the above steps to add or remove more items.

Show only manually pinned folders

Quick access can show frequently used folders as well as folders that you pin manually. If you want to keep the list organized showing only those locations that you pinned manually, then use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the Options button from the "Home" tab.
3. Click the General tab.
4. Clear the "Show frequently used folders in Quick access" option under the "Privacy" section.

5. Click the Apply button.
6. Click the OK button.

Once you complete the steps, only the items that you pinned manually will appear in the navigation pane.

Quick access on the toolbar

Using the Quick Access toolbar, you can get faster access to specific commands, and the best part is that you can customize the toolbar with only the buttons you need.

To customize the Quick Access toolbar, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the down arrow button from the top-left corner.
3. Check the button you want to see in the toolbar. For example, "Undo," "Redo," "Properties," "New Folder," or "Rename."

4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 to add or remove more buttons.
5. (Optional) Right-click any button that you use frequently, and select the "Add to Quick Access toolbar" option.

In addition to adding and removing items, you can relocate the toolbar below the ribbon menu by right-clicking the toolbar and selecting the "Show Quick Access Toolbar below the Ribbon" or "Show Quick Access Toolbar above the Ribbon" option.

How to display file previews on File Explorer

To display file previews and details in File Explorer, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the View tab.
3. Click the Preview pane option.
4. Select the file to view a preview of its content on the right side.
5. Click the Details pane option.

6. Select the file to display the details (such as title, author, size, date created, etc.) on the right side.

After you complete the steps, every time you select a file, depending on your configuration, you'll see the details or preview of its content on the right side.

How to use search on File Explorer

Although finding files and folders is as simple as typing the query in the search box, there are a few tips to get the most out of the feature.

To use advanced search in File Explorer, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Type the query in the search box and press Enter.

If the search doesn't include the result that you're expecting, you can use the "Search" tab to refine the result. For example, you can click the "Current folder" button to limit the search to the current location.

Refine search

In the case that you're looking for a file that was modified during a specific time range, you can use the "Date modified" button, and then select a time range, such as "Today," "Yesterday," "This week," or "Last Year."

If you can't narrow down the content, you can use the "Refine" options. For instance, you can use the "Kind" option to specify the content type, such as "Document," "Folder," "Music," "Picture," Game," etc. In the same way, you can use the "Size" option to limit the search to files of a certain size. You can also use the "Other properties" option to search files created by a specific author, tag, etc.

Search options

Finally, the "Options" section includes the "Recent searches" menu to quickly access previous searches, which can come in handy to reuse customized searches that you may have used in the past, and the "Advanced options" menu to include or exclude non-index locations as well as zipped folders in search results.

Resize search box

If you notice that the search box is too narrow to type a query, you can always drag the left edge of the box to make it larger.

How to use ribbon on File Explorer

On File Explorer, the ribbon works similarly to the ribbon you see in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other Office apps. By default, it's always collapsed, and you can access the commands by clicking the "Home," "Share," or "View" tab.

However, for most users, it's best to have the ribbon expanded, which you can do by clicking the "arrow" button from the top-right corner or using the "Ctrl + F1" keyboard shortcut.

Home tab

The "Home" tab is where you'll find all of your basic commands, such as "Copy," "Cut," and "Paste," to "Rename," "New folder," "Properties," to the option to select items.

Share tab

The "Share" tab includes commands to share files with other people and configure advanced sharing options. It also allows you to create a zip folder.

View tab

The "View" tab is the place that has the commands to control the appearance and sorting options to view files and folders.

Using this tab, you can enable or disable the navigation pane, or enable a preview or details on the right side to see more info about the files in the location. You can change the layout by listing items as large icons or listing with details, and sorting data by criteria (name, type, size, modified date, etc.).

In addition, you get quick access to the most common folder options, including the options to see file extensions and hidden files. Of course, you also get the option to access the rest of the File Explorer option.

Pictures tab

The "Pictures" tab isn't visible until the options are needed. For instance, if you select a supported image file, you can use this tab to rotate the image without needing to open the file. Also, you can start a slide show or set as background.

How to access network drives on File Explorer

If you need to work with files on another computer or server within the local network, File Explorer includes several ways to browse the data you need. For instance, you can use the "Network" tab to browse files. If you want quicker access, you can always pin the location to "Quick access," or you can mount the network folder as a network drive to This PC.

Browsing network files

To access network drives from File Explorer, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the Network item from the navigation pane.
3. Double-click the computer.

4. Sign-in with the required account credentials (if applicable).
5. Browse to the folder location.

After you complete the steps, you'll be able to access the files located on a different computer.

Mounting network drive

If you need quick access to network files, you can map the drive using these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click on This PC from the navigation pane.
3. Click the "Map network drive" button from the "Computer" tab.

4. Use the Drive drop-down menu and select a letter for the drive.
5. Click the Browse button and select the network folder that you want to mount.

6. Click the OK button.
7. (Optional) Check the "Reconnect at sign-in" option.
8. Check the "Connect with different credentials" option (if applicable).

9. Click the Finish button.
10. Confirm your network account credentials (if applicable).

Once you complete the steps, the network folder should appear as a network drive on "This PC."

Alternatively, you can always pin the network folder location to Quick Access for faster access to the files by opening the folder, right-clicking "Quick Access" from the navigation pane, and selecting the "Pin current folder to Quick Access" option.

How to reset settings to default on File Explorer

Although you can restore the File Explorer original settings, there's not a switch to reset all the settings at once. Instead, you have to reset the settings individually, in groups.

Reset General

To reset the general File Explorer settings, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the Options button from the "Home" tab.
3. Click the General tab.
4. Click the Restore Default button.

5. Click the Apply button.
6. Click the OK button.

After you complete the steps, the default option to File Explorer, browse folders settings, navigation, and privacy settings will reset to their default configurations.

Reset folder views

To reset the folder views to their defaults in File Explorer, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the Options button from the "Home" tab.
3. Click the View tab.
4. Click the Reset Folders button under the "Folder views" section.

5. Click the Apply button.
6. Click the OK button.

Once you complete the steps, the folders will return to their default view settings. For instance, if the folders with documents used the "Large icons" view, the view will reset to "Details."

Reset view settings

If you have been changing the File Explorer advanced settings, and you want to restore the original settings, you can use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the Options button from the "Home" tab.
3. Click the View tab.
4. Click the Restore Default button.

5. Click the Apply button.
6. Click the OK button.

After you complete the steps, this action will reset all advanced settings, such as files and folders, hidden files and folders, and navigation pane to their defaults.

How to access recycle bin from navigation pane on File Explorer

To add the recycle bin option to File Explorer, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the Options button from the "Home" tab.
3. Click the Views tab.
4. Check the "Show all folders" option under the "Advanced settings" section in the "Navigation pane" settings.

5. Click the Apply button.
6. Click the OK button.

Once you complete the steps, the recycle bin, along with the Control Panel, will be accessible from the navigation pane.

How to show libraries in navigation pane on File Explorer

If you've recently upgraded to Windows 10, you're probably still used to accessing libraries from the "Libraries" tab in the navigation pane, which is no longer available by default on Windows 10.

If you want to show the libraries in File Explorer, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the Options button from the "Home" tab.
3. Click the Views tab.
4. Check the "Show libraries" option under the "Advanced settings" section in the "Navigation pane" settings.

5. Click the Apply button.
6. Click the OK button.

After you complete the steps, the Libraries item will appear in the navigation pane with quick access to the Camera Roll, Documents, Music, Pictures, and Videos libraries.

How to customize folder view on File Explorer

File Explorer includes five different templates to customize the view of folders, including "General items," "Documents," "Pictures," "Music," and "Videos." Each template provides a unique layout with icons as well as specific sorting and grouping depending on the folder's content type to further customize the experience.

To customize the view for a specific folder on Windows 10, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Browse to the folder that you want to customize its view settings.
3. Right-click the folder and select the Properties option.

4. Click the Customize tab.
5. Under the "What kind of folder you want" section, use the "Optimize this folder for" drop-down menu and select the best option that fits the contents. For example, "General items," "Documents," "Pictures," "Music," or "Videos."

6. (Optional) Check the "Also apply this template to all subfolders" option.
7. (Optional) Under the "Folder pictures" section, click the "Choose File" button.
8. Select a custom image to use as a folder icon in File Explorer.

• Quick tip: File Explorer can generate a thumbnail to make it easier to identify the folder in the location, but you can also use this option to set a custom image.

8. (Optional) Click the Change Icon button under the "Folder icons" section.

10. Select one of the icons available in the folder.

• Quick tip: You can also use any .ico file. If you want to use a custom icon, simply click the Browse button and select the icon that you want for the folder.

11. Click the OK button.

Once you complete the steps, you may need to repeat the steps to customize the view for other folders.

How to show icons instead of thumbnails on File Explorer

File Explorer can create a folder preview to make it easier to identify its content. However, it's possible to disable this option to show icons instead, which can come in handy if Windows 10 has problems displaying thumbnails or you're not interested in seeing previews.

To disable thumbnail views in File Explorer, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the Options button from the "Home" tab.
3. Click the Views tab.
4. Check the "Always show icons, never thumbnails" option under the "Advanced settings" section in the "Files and Folders" settings.

5. Clear the "Display file icon thumbnails" option.

If you're having problems displaying thumbnails and don't want to disable the feature, you can use these steps to fix the problem.

How to restore previous version of files on File Explorer

If you're using File History on Windows 10, you can quickly restore previous versions of files or files that you accidentally delete using File Explorer.

To restore the previous version of files with File Explorer, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Browse to the location with the content that you want to restore.
3. Select the file that you want to restore the previous version, or select the folder containing the missing file.
4. Click the History button from the "Home" tab.

5. Use the back-and-forth controls to find the version to restore.
6. Select the file or folder.

• Quick tip: If you're restoring a previous version of a file, understand that this process will replace the current version. You can avoid overwriting the data by copying the existing file.

7. Click the green Restore button.
8. Click the "Replace the file in the destination" option.

Once you complete the steps, the data will be restored to its original location.

How to use keyboard shortcuts to manage File Explorer

If you want complete tasks even faster, File Explorer includes a handful keyboard shortcuts, and here's are the most useful:

• Windows key + E: Opens File Explorer.
• Ctrl + Shift + N: Creates new folder.
• Ctrl + N: Opens new instance of File Explorer.
• Alt + Left arrow: Returns to previous folder in the history.
• Alt + Right arrow: Jumps to next folder in the history.
• Alt + Up arrow: Moves a level up.
• Ctrl + F or F3: Starts a search.
• Ctrl + L: Focus on the address bar.
• Ctrl + Shift + Number 1-8: Changes folder view (large to small icons, list, details, etc.).
• F4: Focus on the address bar and opens recent history.
• F5: Refresh the instance of File Explorer.
• Ctrl + C: Copies an item.
• Ctrl + X: Cuts an item.
• Ctrl + V: Pastes an item.
• Ctrl + A: Select all items.
• Ctrl + Z: Undo last action.
• Ctrl + Y: Redo last action.
• F2: Renames item.

More resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources: 

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

On Windows 11 and 10, File Explorer includes five different templates to customize the view of folders, including "General items" (the default for every new folder), "Documents," "Pictures," "Music," and "Videos." Each template provides a unique layout with icons and specific sorting and grouping depending on the folder's content type.

For instance, the "Pictures" template view offers a layout with large icons, while the "Music" view applies the details layout, which offers a list view sorting by track number, title, artist, and additional information.

You can use any template for a particular folder to customize your viewing experience further. However, if you made many changes to the folders, you can always reset the view to its original settings with the "Folders options" settings.

In this how-to guide, I will walk you through the easy steps to reset (or change) the folder view settings on File Explorer.

How to reset folder view settings on File Explorer for Windows 11

To restore the default settings for folders on File Explorer, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the See more menu.
3. Click on Options.

4. Click the View tab.
5. Click the "Reset Folders" button to reset similar folder types.
6. Click the Yes button.
7. Click the "Apply to Folders" to reset the settings for all folder types.

8. Click the Yes button.
9. Click the OK button.

Once you complete the steps, the view for your folders will reset to the system default template.

Change folder view template

To change the folder view template, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Open the folder location.
3. Right-click the folder and choose the Properties option.

4. Click the Customize tab.
5. Choose the correct folder template:

• General items.
• Documents.
• Pictures.
• Music.
• Videos.

1. (Optional) Check the "Also apply this template to all subfolders" option.
2. Click the Apply button.
3. Click the OK button.

After you complete the steps, the view will be optimized for the content type you specified for the folder.

How to reset folder view settings on File Explorer for Windows 10

To restore the original settings for a particular folder in File Explorer, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click on the View tab.
3. Click on the Options button.

4. Click on the View tab.
5. Click the Reset Folders button.
6. Click the "Reset Folders" button to reset similar folder types.
7. Click the Yes button.
8. Click the "Apply to Folders" to reset the settings for all folder types.
9. Click the Yes button.

6. Click the Yes button.
7. Click the OK button.

Once you complete the steps, the folder will reset to the default template settings.

Change folder view template

If you're using the wrong folder view template, use these steps to switch templates:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Browse to the location of the folder that you want to customize.
3. Right-click the folder and select the Properties option.

1. Click the Customize tab.
2. Use the "Optimize this folder for" drop-down menu and select the correct folder view template:

• General items.
• Documents.
• Pictures.
• Music.
• Videos.

6. (Optional) Check the "Also apply this template to all subfolders" option.
7. Click the Apply button.
8. Click the OK button.

Once you complete the steps, File Explorer will apply the view template to the folder.

More resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources: 

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Microsoft's universal File Explorer has been updated with new features and changes for the first time in Windows 10 version 1809, adding new behaviors such as drag-and-drop, better right-click support and more. The universal File Explorer first debuted with Windows 10 Mobile back in 2015 and eventually made its way to Xbox and HoloLens too. Microsoft even started bundling it with Windows 10 desktop starting with version 1703, albeit in a hidden state.

The universal File Explorer has never been (and still isn't) intended for desktop use as it was only ever built for versions of Windows 10 where the legacy File Explorer didn't exist, on devices where the user wasn't expected to do much file management anyway. Starting with version 1809, however, it appears Microsoft has started work on the universal File Explorer again, as we've noted the following changes to the app in the latest Redstone 5 builds:

• Drag and drop support.
• Better right-click menu support.
• Improved copy/paste system similar to legacy File Explorer.
• New cut option.
• Can set images as wallpaper directly from the app.
• UI buttons at the top instead of bottom of the app.

These changes are very interesting, if only because Microsoft has never updated this app before. The app is still hidden on the desktop in 1809, so why has Microsoft decided to update it now? Well, according to my sources, Microsoft is planning to use this universal File Explorer on Windows Core OS (WCOS) devices including Surface Hub 2, HoloLens 2, Andromeda, and even PCs with Polaris. Work on this universal File Explorer has only really just started, so expect to see even more improvements over the next several Windows 10 feature updates.

Early groundwork

What we see in version 1809 is the early groundwork for the universal File Explorer that will be used on WCOS. Today, the app is still very basic, but it should be fine on devices like the Surface Hub 2 and HoloLens 2, both of which are expected to launch with WCOS within the next year. WCOS for traditional PC form-factors is still years out, so Microsoft has more time to build out the universal app with a better UI and more features before then.

My sources say that there are no current plans to outright replace the classic File Explorer on legacy Windows 10, which isn't all that surprising as the classic File Explorer is a behemoth that can't simply be ripped out of legacy Windows. The universal File Explorer will be used on WCOS devices at first (unless you manually enable it on legacy Windows 10), which makes sense as that's the new, modern version of Windows 10 that guts legacy components and features in favor of UWP-first experiences.

Regardless, it's evident that Microsoft really wants to push towards a truly modern Windows 10 experience, and bringing more and more of old Windows over to UWP is slowly starting to take shape. We've seen this happening with Control Panel, Paint, Snipping Tool, and more. Microsoft is only just getting started in its modernization of Windows; the next few years are going to be very interesting for Windows fans.

How to enable

If you're interested in trying out the universal File Explorer on desktop for yourself, check out our dedicated how-to guide detailing everything you need to do. It's pretty easy!

Microsoft is debuting a brand new dark theme for File Explorer with its upcoming Windows 10 feature update, codenamed Redstone 5 and scheduled for release in October. It's not often that you see File Explorer receive any new features or changes, the last notable one was when Microsoft added the Ribbon UI to it back in 2012{.nofollow}. So the introduction of a new dark theme for File Explorer is a pretty big deal — let's take a closer look and see how it is.

Just like most apps on Windows 10, enabling the dark theme for File Explorer is done through the system-wide dark mode toggle within the Settings app on Windows 10. Once enabled, File Explorer seamlessly switches into dark mode, which blackens out the title bar and tabs, and gives the rest of the UI a dark gray tone, which is super easy on the eyes.

Even the context menus within the File Explorer and on the desktop have received dark mode treatment, which makes these legacy context menus appear more consistent alongside the modern context menus found in UWP apps when dark mode is enabled. It's pretty awesome and is something I've been asking for since Windows 10 first launched back in 2015.

It's not all good news

On the surface, dark mode within File Explorer is really cool. It looks good and functions well. However, when you start to dig a little deeper, things aren't so peachy. For example, other than the File Explorer itself, none of the popups or related dialogs have been themed to match the dark mode. That means when you copy and paste or view the properties of a file, you're thrown back into a UI that's blindingly white in nature.

I've also noticed a few bugs when dark mode is enabled, sometimes it doesn't fully enable in the File Explorer when opening it up, leaving for some elements remaining white while the rest of it is dark. There's also a minor UI issue going back from legacy Control Panel to File Explorer, which will see white flashes when switching between folders and sidebar dividers remain white instead of switching back to dark.

And then there are other Explorer windows such as the legacy Control Panel itself, which appear to be half themed with some UI elements featuring dark mode and others not. I know Microsoft is slowly phasing out the Control Panel and related legacy Explorer windows, but they aren't gone yet. So it's important they at least look finished.

Of course, there's still several weeks of development time left before this update is finalized, so these issues could still be ironed out before then. However, Microsoft has announced that its dark mode in File Explorer is pretty much done at this point, so expecting any considerable changes to how it behaves across different windows is likely not going to happen for this release.

Other than those small issues, the dark mode in File Explorer looks excellent, and is exactly what I've been hoping for within Windows 10. When you aren't surfaced with a white popup dialog, the dark mode UI looks and feels complete, and it's great to see Microsoft focusing on at least trying to make its light/dark modes consistent across apps, even if they are legacy.

Windows 10's dark mode is an awesome feature that allows you to switch most apps and system elements into a darker theme, which is easier on the eyes, and, depending on your preference, looks awesome. Unfortunately, the dark mode in Windows 10 has been rather inconsistent in where it is applied; when dark mode is enabled you can find it in most system apps, a few third party apps, and a few system elements. It was always missing from the File Explorer, however.

It appears that won't be the case for much longer, as Microsoft is finally working on bringing support for dark mode to the File Explorer on Windows 10. This isn't the lightweight UWP version, either. It's the full, fat, Win32 File Explorer, and it's getting the dark mode treatment. Early references of this new dark mode can be found in the latest Redstone 5 Insider build, but it isn't fully enabled in that branch yet. Microsoft is working on this feature internally, and man does it look good!

Once ready, enabling dark mode in File Explorer is done with the system-wide toggle found in the Windows Settings app, which makes all your other apps dark too. The screenshot above is of an early version of dark mode in File Explorer, which means it'll likely change before it's finalized. Still, this early look is promising for dark mode advocates like myself. File Explorer has needed a dark mode for years, and it's finally getting one. We're unsure if Microsoft is planning to ship dark mode in File Explorer with Redstone 5, or if it'll wait for 19H1 early next year. Regardless, we know it's coming, and that's super exciting.

For those wondering about the UWP File Explorer, I'm told that it is still in the works and will show up exclusively on Windows Core OS devices at first. It'll likely be a long while before we see the UWP File Explorer replace the legacy File Explorer on classic Windows 10 SKUs such as Home or Pro, as Microsoft wants to ensure the UWP File Explorer can do everything the legacy one can before it replaces it. That process will take time, meaning UWP File Explorer will be a WCOS only thing at first.

If you're one of many Windows Insiders who have been constantly asking Microsoft to bring tabs to File Explorer, we may have some good news for you. According to sources familiar with the matter, Microsoft is currently experimenting internally with a new feature called "Tabbed Shell", which brings the familiar browser tabbing module to all app windows in Windows 10, including the File Explorer.

Per our sources, Tabbed Shell is a feature being worked on at an OS level, and doesn't require work from app developers to take advantage of it. By default, Tabbed Shell works with any app window, whether it be Photoshop, File Explorer, or Microsoft Word. Any UWP, Win32 or Centennial app will work. Much like in Edge, you'll find a tabbed interface at the top of a window where you can switch between instances of the same app.

This means that right away, any app can take advantage of the new tabbing experience without any developer work. If an app features a titlebar, it will be able to function with Tabbed Shell. Microsoft will also offer API's to developers if they wish to "integrate" their apps with Tabbed Shell, which will give the app more control over the tabbed experience.

For example, an app that isn't optimized for Tabbed Shell will likely display two window controls, titles and icons, as the app in question isn't integrated with Tabbed Shell. Based on internal designs, we've created a mock-up below in which you can see how this would work. In our example, we're using Word 2016 as an unoptimized Tabbed Shell app.

However, if an app developer does want to take advantage of Tabbed Shell, they can do just that. Developers will be able to adjust titles, tab colors, create custom New Tab experiences and more. In our second example, you can see that in this scenario Word 2016 is integrated with Tabbed Shell, making for a much more streamlined user-experience.

The goal for Tabbed Shell is to extend the popular and familiar browser tabbing experience to other app windows, which should help unify the user-experience and window management across the entire operating system.

Microsoft is still experimenting with the user-experience for this feature. As it currently stands, it's unclear whether the tabbed experience will show up by default, or if it'll only show up once you have two instances of the same program open. A lot of user-experience scenarios still need to be figured out, which isn't much of a surprise considering this feature is still pretty far out.

Speaking of, it's currently unclear when/if this feature will show up. Sources say it could be either Redstone 3 or Redstone 4 in 2018. That's assuming Microsoft doesn't end up killing the feature, like they do so often internally. Hopefully, if this feature is further along than we're expecting, we might see it at Microsoft's BUILD developer conference in May.

Redstone 3 development is now well under way internally, and there are several features in the works that are yet to be announced. Keep it locked to Windows Central for more news regarding Windows 10 Redstone 3.

If there is one thing people love to have – even on a phone – it is a File Explorer. Microsoft previously gave us an app called Files for Windows Phone 8.1, but Windows 10 for phone takes it a step further with a real, Modern File Explorer app for desktop and your phone.

Tune into our video tour of this app, including its features and functions. The app is demonstrated on both the Lumia 830 (AT&T) and Lumia 635 (T-Mobile).

Oh and yes, it does do landscape orientation as well! Of all the new apps so far on Windows 10, the File Explorer feels quite stable. Considering it too is an app, it can be updated through the Store like other system apps directly.

Stay tuned for more Windows 10 coverage! Let us know in comments what you think of this new File Explorer – hit or miss?

Last week we told you guys and gals about two new file explorers for Windows Phone 8.1. One of them, Pocket Explorer, just picked up a really nice update. It’s a really nice app that allows you to manage your documents, downloads and much more! Let’s check out the latest release of Pocket Explorer for Windows Phone 8.1.

Head to the Windows Phone Store and you’ll see Pocket Explorer sitting at version 1.1.1.17. Here’s what’s new and different in this release of Pocket Explorer:

• Feels faster
• (NEW) Thumbnail view added
• Better support for very large folders
• Multiple crash fixes
• Accurate properties for folders
• (NEW) Can move/copy multiple folders at once
• (NEW) Can cancel file operations

Ha. It probably does feel faster. Jokes aside, this update will be welcomed by the community. Most crashes that users have been reporting seem to be fixed. Let us know if you experienced crashes with Pocket Explorer and whether or not this update fixed them.

You’ll also notice the new ability to move and copy multiple folders at once. In addition, you can now cancel file operations using the app.

Looking ahead, the developer informs us that we can look forward to things like OneDrive support, prettier/colored thumbnails, sorting options and a possible search function. When Pocket Explorer picks up this update we’ll let you know!

Pocket Explorer is a free app for Windows Phone 8.1 users. The trial is fully functional, you’ll notice a banner on the bottom asking you to upgrade. Other than there’s no difference between the trial and paid version of the app.

Download Pocket Explorer from the Windows Phone Store.

Via: Reddit

Some of you were looking for file managers for Windows Phone 8.1, so a couple of developers have quickly delivered. These file managers let you access your Documents, Downloads, and other user folders. You can essentially read, copy, and move files.

The two apps that we’re looking at are Aerize Explorer and Pocket Explorer. They share similar features with a few differences. Both apps are currently works in progress but can already be downloaded from the Windows Phone Store.

Aerize Explorer

Aerize lets you manage your files, folders, and storage cards. It is the first file manager for Windows Phone that can read and write files and folders to storage cards and the device file system. This means you can easily move files and folders between your device and microSD card.

Like we mentioned before, Aerize Explorer is still a work in progress. We’re not fans of the current design. It gets things done, but it’s not pretty. For example, the file location address and time stamp are displayed underneath file and folder names. We think these can be omitted or perhaps displayed in a better way.

Aerize Explorer is a free download from the Windows Phone Store.  The developers are listening to your feedback and are responding quickly to requests. Head over to the forums to follow the conversation.

Pocket Explorer

Pocket Explorer also lets you Read, Copy, and Move files around, but we like the design better than Aerize. It looks clean and gets bonus points for integrating your phone’s accent color.

A feature we really like on Pocket Explorer is the ability to pin user files and folders. For example, I have my bus schedule in pdf format pinned to the home screen.

Pocket Explorer is free to try with the purchase option for $1.99 at the Windows Phone Store. It’s currently in beta, but we’re really happy with it so far.

You should install both of these file managers on your Windows Phone 8.1 devices with Preview for Developers.  You’ll see more improvements in the coming weeks as both developers continue to iron things out. Which file manager do you prefer so far? Let us know in the comments!