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File Explorer, though it is often overlooked, is the heart of Windows. It is where all of our files are stored and can be accessed by all of our media. Although it has been an integral part of Windows' experience for years, the interface has not evolved as fast as the main UI. According to a new report, Microsoft wants to make this a better experience for users. One of the goals is to improve OneDrive's integration with its Office suite. It will be updated with a modern design to match the rest of Windows 11. It features a new header and all the other elements from Windows 10.
Windows Central first reported on the plans of Microsoft two weeks ago. The site now has mockups that show some of the changes. A new header, updated file directory boxes, modern search boxes, and a revamped Home button are some of the changes. Quick action keys will also be added to the ribbon under the header for creating a new folder or copying/pasting. Microsoft 365 integration will be enhanced in the new default File Explorer window. It will highlight files with large thumbnails and emails from Outlook, as you can see.
To make the navigation box look modern, it will be updated to the left. This update will be cosmetic and include rounded edges to icons. The file details pane in Office will now be integrated with Office, allowing for more information. Integration with Microsoft 365 allows you to view recent activity in email threads or cloud documents. These changes will improve the user experience for touch-screen users. These changes include touch-friendly hitboxes to the file directory.
Microsoft is also working to improve the viewing experience for photos. It's currently quite frustrating as it only displays thumbnails. To display multiple images, you will need to open another app. You can hover your mouse over an image in order to view a larger version. Microsoft may also allow users to add tags on photos, according to rumors.
These changes will likely arrive in preview builds over the next few months. After they have been thoroughly tested, they will be released to the public. This will likely happen by the end of this year. This is part a long-running campaign from Microsoft to bring File Explorer into this era. Since Windows 8 a decade ago, it has remained largely unchanged. Recent additions of tabs to File Explorer were a great help.
It can be frustrating when companies make UI changes to promote their products instead of making changes that benefit all users. We wonder, for example, if Dropbox files will be listed in the Recommended Files section. Gmail users will not see any new files in File Explorer, which is also doubtful. We will continue to monitor the final version until we know more.
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By: Josh Norem
Title: Microsoft Is Planning a Modern Redesign of File Explorer for Windows 11
Sourced From: www.extremetech.com/computing/342587-microsoft-is-planning-a-modern-redesign-of-file-explorer-for-windows-11
Published Date: Wed, 25 Jan 2023 19:23:17 +0000
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