June 9, 2023
Microsoft is updating File Explorer in Windows 11 with new tools.
The changes include a redesigned Home, address bar, and search box. They are also introducing a feature to improve file search. These updates are available to some developers for feedback before a wider release. The new File Explorer aligns with the Windows 11 design and uses the Windows App SDK for consistent development. The File Explorer Home is powered by the Windows UI Library and includes a Recommended File feature that displays cloud files in a carousel format.
In addition, Microsoft is launching a redesigned address bar that differentiates between local and cloud files. Through this URL bar, OneDrive users will receive information about their sync status and quota. However, several difficulties with the improved File Explorer have been detected, such as potential crashes when moving the scroll bar or dismissing the window during lengthy file-loading operations.
In File Explorer Home, users who navigate the Recommended sections using the tab key may encounter problems, and the emphasis may not show correctly on group headers or files while moving between groups with the keyboard. Furthermore, an authentication problem may prevent the “Please Sign-in” button from functioning properly.
The sources for this piece include an article in TheRegister.
