Windows 11 expected to bring major visual update to File Explorer

Microsoft is working to further modernize File Explorer for Windows 11.

Fie Explorer new UI changes
Fie Explorer new UI changes
  • Microsoft may soon introduce major interface changes for File Explorer.
  • Reports suggest that the file manager will include a new Home page and folder interface.
  • The app will also include new item recommendations and various other features.

The Windows 11 team plans to deliver more visual updates for File Explorer, including a redesigned folder interface and Home page. Although the company introduced a new version of the default file manager for Windows 11, the application still includes parts from the legacy version. The upcoming update seems to help complete Microsoft’s vision for File Explorer.

In the latest preview of Windows 11 available in the Dev Channel, @FireCubeStudios on Twitter (via Windows Central) has spotted part of the XAML and WinUI code and references for a redesigned Home page and left navigation page.

The new page includes a new section with “Recommended” items similar to the items available in the Start menu and various other elements that should update the remaining legacy parts of the application to a modern design to make it more consistent with the design language of Windows 11.

Furthermore, it appears that the team is also working on some extra features, including “Shared Status,” “Conversations,” “Insights,” and “Activities” pages which are said to be features that will integrate with the Microsoft 365 products.

According to the report from Windows Central, in future updates, Microsoft plans to add modern design updates to make File Explorer more touch-friendly with a simplified interface in the sidebar and header and bigger hitboxes.

It’s unclear when the new changes will arrive in the stable version of Windows 11, but since some of the code and references can already be found in the latest preview of the operating system, testers may likely see some of these changes soon.

About the author

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 21 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].