Xbox One to lose its File Explorer due to 'limited usage'

Xbox One S (Image credit: Windows Central)

What you need to know

The File Explorer app will be removed from the Xbox One.
The Xbox Insider team says that the removal is due to "limited usage."
People will have to use alternative ways to access local files.

The announcement was immediately met with backlash from several users. Many complain that the File Explorer was useful for uploading custom wallpapers and gamerpics, though it's worth noting that there are other ways to do this that Microsoft recommends. People also pointed out that they use it for local files like movies and music.

This is a quick notice to let our #XboxInsiders know that File Explorer is no longer available on Xbox One. The app has been removed due to limited usage.This is a quick notice to let our #XboxInsiders know that File Explorer is no longer available on Xbox One. The app has been removed due to limited usage.— Xbox Insider (@xboxinsider) December 4, 2019 December 4, 2019

The Xbox Insider team responded with a thread that includes directions to upload custom wallpapers and gamerpics from OneDrive or a USB device. You can also change your wallpaper using the Dropbox app for Xbox One or the free Media Player.

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Sean Endicott is a news writer and apps editor for Windows Central with 11+ years of experience. A Nottingham Trent journalism graduate, Sean has covered the industry’s arc from the Lumia era to the launch of Windows 11 and generative AI. Having started at Thrifter, he uses his expertise in price tracking to help readers find genuine hardware value.

Beyond tech news, Sean is a UK sports media pioneer. In 2017, he became one of the first to stream via smartphone and is an expert in AP Capture systems. A tech-forward coach, he was named 2024 BAFA Youth Coach of the Year. He is focused on using technology—from AI to Clipchamp—to gain a practical edge.