In April 2023, we published a report titled “This is Windows 11’s New File Explorer, Biggest Update Since Windows 8” based on many leaks and internal reports. Today, Microsoft officially teased the all-new File Explorer for Windows 11 and above.
As expected, the tech giant is not building a new UWP version of its file manager. Instead, it refreshes the outdated file explorer with WinUI and more. The “all new” File Explorer update is more than a simple design refresh. It has a lot of good additions, including a new details pane, Microsoft 365 integration, and gallery view.
As you can see in the screenshots above and below, Microsoft is revamping everything in File Explorer. This includes the folder view, toolbar, menus, search bar and, you name it – it gets some design improvements. This is evident from the leaks and a new teaser from the Microsoft 2023 developer conference where the company announced Windows Copilot.
Microsoft has also moved action buttons below the address bar to reduce clutter. The search bar will get better previews and should be much faster.
If you remember, Windows 10’s File Explorer update slowed down the search bar, but it’s FINALLY getting fixed in Windows 11.
Gallery view, details pane, and Microsoft 365 in the new file explorer
This new version of File Explorer comes with a new gallery feature called “Gallery View” that transforms the way you view images in File Manager. It would be similar to Microsoft Photos or OneDrive, meaning Gallery View shows photos from the image and other folders in an attractive format.
You can browse and search photos by date by typing keywords in the search box.
It’s worth noting that this new experience is based on XAML (Extensible Application Markup Language). Other functions will also use XAML, which means you can expect all WinUI related elements to appear in the new File Explorer. However, there are some concerns that the changes could lead to potential performance issues.
Of course, the new Explorer looks identical to the existing Explorer with the same structure and layout.
Another notable change is a modernized details pane in File Explorer (ALT + Shift + P).
As you probably know, the details pane, disabled by default, lets you know more about the selected file or folder. As part of the update, Microsoft is revamping the details pane to highlight more information and make it attractive by highlighting file thumbnails, Microsoft 365 collaboration, sharing status, and more.
Finally, Microsoft 365 will be deeply integrated into the file manager, so you can expect Microsoft 365 content to appear as “recommendations” on the new home page.