Microsoft has started rolling out a long-awaited new feature for Windows 11 that should make it easier to navigate through files and folders.
In the latest Windows 11 preview build (25136), now available to Early Access Program members, Microsoft has introduced a new tab system in File Explorer, similar to those found in web browsers.
Instead of opening an additional instance of File Explorer to browse for a new file location, users can now simply view a new tab, which will fit neatly into the same window.
Windows 11 File Explorer Tabs
The new look of File Explorer was first announced in April at an event focused on hybrid working innovations for Windows 11.
The goal is simple: reduce desktop clutter and make it easier to work with multiple file locations at once by reducing the number of windows open simultaneously.
The announcement was well received by Windows fans, who had been asking for this feature for years. roughly since its introduction in macOS in 2013. Until now, users had to rely on third-party solutions to take advantage of the (*11*) in Windows 11, but not anymore.
However, the new tab system isn't the only change in File Explorer. As described in a new blog post (opens in a new tab), Microsoft has also revamped the side panel, putting the OneDrive cloud storage service at the forefront.
“File Explorer features an updated design of the left navigation panel, which will allow you to easily navigate to the folders that interest you,” Microsoft explained. "The updated organization gives you easy access to your pinned and frequently used folders (Quick Access) and OneDrive cloud profiles added to Windows."
Also, the regular folders like Documents, Pictures, Downloads, etc. It will no longer be included in "This PC", a space that will now be reserved exclusively for the computer's hard drives and external storage.
It's not yet clear when the new version of File Explorer will be fully released to the public, but users can at least take comfort in the fact that testing has now begun in earnest.