In the latest preview build of Windows 11, users can expect a revamped File Explorer, along with various other features.
File Explorer, which serves as the central pillar of the Windows 11 interface, has undergone a complete overhaul in the Beta channel’s latest test version (build 22621.2050 / 22631.2050).
Referred to as a modernized File Explorer by Microsoft, it now includes a new details pane, address bar, and search box.
The details pane displays contextual information related to selected files, such as thumbnails, share status, recent activity, and other relevant details.
The new address bar in File Explorer automatically identifies local or cloud folders, displaying their status accordingly. Additionally, for OneDrive users, the bar shows the sync status and includes a quota flyout.
For Microsoft account users, Quick Access folders have been updated for a better experience. Azure Active Directory (AAD) account holders will have recommended files displayed in a carousel, with file thumbnails coming soon.
Another noteworthy addition is the Dynamic Lighting hub, which simplifies the control of RGB lighting for peripherals. This eliminates the need for multiple third-party apps provided by hardware manufacturers. Microsoft has partnered with various peripheral manufacturers, including Acer, Asus, HP, HyperX, Logitech, Razer, and Twinkly.
In this beta build, Windows Ink has been improved to allow users to write into edit fields within the operating system. This means you can directly write in a search box in the Windows 11 interface, with the eventual goal of enabling stylus writing anywhere in the UI.
Other updates include a new volume mixer in Quick Settings and the addition of new natural voices for Narrator (including UK English, Chinese, Japanese, and Spanish). For more details, refer to Microsoft’s blog post introducing the build.
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These latest additions are significant. Gamers will find the Dynamic Lighting hub particularly beneficial, even though its arrival for testing is slightly delayed compared to expectations. The redesigned File Explorer is also a welcome change and is expected to be a central element of the upcoming 23H2 update, which will also feature an image gallery view for folders (already incorporated in the Beta channel earlier).
Furthermore, the settings for ‘never combined’ mode in Windows 11 are worth noting. This highly anticipated feature is now included in Taskbar behaviors in the preview build’s Settings, though it is currently non-functional. However, Microsoft assures that it will be enabled in a soon-to-be-released beta build. This feature is likely to be included in the 23H2 update as well, which is great news for users who want to prevent stacked running instances of the same app on the taskbar.
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Alex Smith is a writer and editor with over 10 years of experience. He has written extensively on a variety of topics, including technology, business, and personal finance. His work has been published in a number of magazines and newspapers, and he is also the author of two books. Alex is passionate about helping people learn and grow, and he believes that writing is a powerful tool for communication and understanding.
