New Windows 11 File Explorer
We have known for several weeks that Microsoft is working on an important evolution of the Windows 11 file explorer. After the support for tabs, the application will continue its transformation in order to be richer and more complete.
This software is the most used application of the operating system. Its importance is capital to the point that its evolutions have been rare and minimal for several years. However, Microsoft has decided to make changes and developments through a new version.
It is the result of extensive development work over several months. One of the major projects concerns its WinAppSDK (Windows App SDK) migration in order to take advantage of the “WinUI” interface, new APIs and other new features.
The interface will benefit from a redesigned header with an update of the search field and header buttons, while offering a clearer and more intuitive approach. Important information is highlighted. The interface becomes lighter. An integration of Microsoft 365 is planned in particular with regard to the recommended files and the details of the files. It is also programmed to modify the navigation on the left side and the information pane in order to enrich the experience and the uses. For its part, the “Gallery” area offers a new approach to media viewing. Finally, the application should be efficient and enriched by further Web integration.
There is no date yet for the rollout but fall 2023 is possible. For some, this is going to be the biggest File Explorer update of the last ten years.
Windows 11 and the new File Explorer.
Several screenshots found their way to the webs.
The “Home” entry integrates with Microsoft 365 and will offer information in the “recommended files” section. These recommendations will feature large thumbnails so you can easily see the files.
Microsoft has reworked the header and moved some options like “New” or “Copy”. This choice reduces clutter and leaves room for updated search box functionality.
The new “details” pane is supposed to be more user-friendly and optimized for Microsoft 365. Clearly it is possible to see emails, threads, comments, tags and more details regarding shared files.
For its part, the “Gallery” displays images in an attractive format, similar to modern Windows 11 applications. Mouse-over displays larger previews.
Clicking the Gallery icon under “Home” automatically displays a series of images from the Pictures folder. Content is sorted by date. Selecting an image is accompanied by the display on the right in the information details pane.
However, this new File Explorer is not yet 100% operational. Testing suggests that there is still work to be done especially around Gallery suffering from instability.
