Windows 11 File Explorer Update: A Fix for a Long-Standing Bug
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Microsoft’s Windows 11 users are in for a treat. The tech giant is rolling out several key improvements to the File Explorer in the Beta channel, addressing a persistent issue that has frustrated users for over a year. One significant change tackles the problem of window restoration after logging in or restarting the computer.
Previously, if users had multiple folders open as tabs within a single File Explorer window, those folders would reopen in separate windows after a restart. This behavior contradicted the system’s settings for restoring previously open windows. This meant that even with window restoration enabled, users would find their organized File Explorer sessions fragmented across multiple windows.
imagine having four folders open for work, meticulously organized in one window. After a restart, those four folders are now scattered across four separate windows, disrupting workflow. This is the problem Microsoft has finally addressed.
The good news is that the updated File Explorer will now correctly restore all tabs within a single window, respecting user preferences. “The good news is that Explorer will fully understand and respect the windows recovery settings. It should therefore be done after re-login refresh the window even with all tabs,” confirms a beta tester. While Microsoft hasn’t publicly explained the delay in resolving this issue, the fix is a welcome advancement for many.
Another notable enhancement involves how folders are opened from applications outside of File Explorer. Previously, opening a folder from a browser or other program would always launch a new File Explorer window. Now, if File Explorer is already running, the folder will open as a new tab within the existing window, mirroring the tabbed browsing experience familiar to most internet users.This change offers a more streamlined and efficient workflow.
the update addresses persistent prompts to back up files to OneDrive. These prompts, previously appearing in the start menu, are now integrated directly into File Explorer, providing a more contextually relevant user experience.This change reflects microsoft’s ongoing efforts to improve the overall user experience within Windows 11.
These updates are currently available in the Windows 11 Beta channel, indicating that a wider rollout is likely in the near future. For users eager to experience these improvements, joining the Beta program is a straightforward way to access the latest features and contribute to the ongoing progress of Windows 11.
Windows 11 Users Rejoice: OneDrive Backup Option Gets the Axe
For years, Microsoft’s integration of OneDrive into Windows has been a source of both convenience and frustration for users. The constant prompts and suggestions to back up files to the cloud have been a persistent annoyance for many.Now, however, a significant change is on the horizon. A new feature in the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview build allows users to permanently disable the OneDrive backup option from File Explorer.
This development is a direct response to user feedback and addresses a long-standing concern. The persistent push towards OneDrive integration, frequently enough perceived as intrusive, has been a major point of contention among Windows users. This move by Microsoft suggests a shift towards prioritizing user control and customization.
the ability to “turn it off once and for all,” as described in the recent Windows Insider Program announcement, is a welcome change for those who prefer to manage their backups independently or utilize alternative cloud storage solutions. This increased user autonomy aligns with the growing demand for greater control over personal data and digital experiences.
The feature is currently being tested in the Windows 11 Insider Preview Beta channel, starting with build 22635.4580. This means its not yet available to the general public, but its inclusion in the Beta channel suggests a relatively fast rollout to stable Windows 11 in the near future. For those unfamiliar with the Insider Program, it’s a way for Microsoft to get feedback on new features before they’re released to everyone.
While the exact timeline for the widespread release remains unclear, the fact that this feature is already in the Beta channel indicates that a stable release is likely imminent. This is good news for millions of windows 11 users who have long sought a way to permanently disable the automatic OneDrive backup prompts.
This change reflects a broader trend in the tech industry towards greater user control and customization options. As consumers become more aware of their digital footprint and data privacy, companies are increasingly responding by offering more granular control over their software and services. This move by Microsoft is a positive step in that direction.
For more information, you can visit the official windows Insider blog.
Windows 11 File Explorer Gets a Much-Needed Fix
Microsoft has released a new Windows 11 update through its Insider Preview program, and it focuses primarily on addressing long-standing issues with File Explorer. These improvements center around window restoration and folder opening behavior, aiming to offer a smoother and more intuitive user experience.
Interview with Mark Hanson, Senior Software Engineer Specializing in Operating System Design
World Today News: Mark, these File Explorer changes seem quiet meaningful. Can you provide some context on why Microsoft needed to address these issues?
Mark Hanson: Absolutely. The previous behavior regarding window restoration was incredibly frustrating for users, especially those who relied on multiple tabs within a single File Explorer window for organization. Imagine careful work sessions being broken up into separate windows after every restart – it significantly disrupted workflow.
World Today News: So, how does this update address that specific problem?
Mark Hanson: Essentially, the update ensures that File Explorer now fully respects the system’s window restoration settings. When you restart your computer, all your File Explorer tabs will reopen in a single window, preserving your organizational structure and saving you the hassle of rearranging everything.
World Today News: Beyond window restoration, what other improvements are included in this update?
Mark Hanson: One noticeable change is how File Explorer handles folders opened from external applications. Previously, this always resulted in a new File Explorer window popping up. Now, if File Explorer is already open, these folders will load as tabs within the existing window. think of it like how tabs work in a web browser—more streamlined and less cluttered.
World Today News: What about the persistent prompts to use OneDrive?
Mark Hanson: Those have been reworked as well.instead of appearing in the Start menu, the OneDrive prompts are now integrated directly into File Explorer. This makes the experience feel more contextual and relevant to what you’re doing within the file system.
World Today News: these sound like welcome changes. When can users expect to see them in a stable release?
Mark Hanson: The update is currently in the Beta testing phase. if it receives positive feedback and no major issues arise, it’s likely to roll out to the general public within a few months, depending on Microsoft’s release schedule.
World Today News: Thank you very much for your insights into these File Explorer updates, Mark.
