Windows 11 file explorer with tabs refresh incoming: Here's how to get it

Files 2 Layout
Files 2 Layout (Image credit: Yair Aichenbaum)

What you need to know

  • Signups are open to test out a file explorer with tabs called Files v2.
  • The app will soon receive a refreshed look with icons and a design to match Windows 11.
  • You can already download Files without being a tester, but it will have a look more in line with Windows 10.

When I wrote about how to get a tabbed file explorer on Windows 11, many asked how to get a version with the refreshed look. Right now, Files looks like the first image shown below, but its developers hope to roll out its new look in the next couple of weeks.

The new look is similar to the one I showed off earlier this month, but it has some updated icons and new options in the toolbar.

I've tested Files through several iterations. It can replace the default Windows File Explorer many tasks but has some gaps that power users will notice. Those gaps continue to close as development moves forward. It works well with touch or a mouse and keyboard and supports many features you'd expect.

You can sign up to take part in the testing through this form.

The new look will come to people running Windows 11 and Windows 10, though the mica effect won't appear on Windows 10.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

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.