Microsoft is implementing notable enhancements to the File Explorer in Windows 11, aimed at streamlining user experience and boosting performance, particularly on less powerful hardware. The latest Dev preview builds introduce a preloading feature designed to expedite the launch of File Explorer, making it quicker and more efficient for users who may not have access to high-end systems.
This preloading mechanism is expected to significantly improve the startup speed of File Explorer, especially on devices such as handhelds and tablets, where performance can be a challenge. While modern PCs typically experience near-instantaneous loading times, the changes will be particularly beneficial for users who rely on more modest hardware configurations. For those who prefer not to have File Explorer running in the background, Microsoft will offer an option to disable this feature.
In addition to preloading, Microsoft is also refining the context menu within File Explorer. The aim is to declutter the interface by relocating less frequently used actions into submenus. This redesign includes a new manage file flyout that consolidates functions such as compressing files into a ZIP, copying as a path, setting a desktop background, and rotating images. Furthermore, cloud file options have been organized into a dedicated flyout, which will also feature the “Send to My Phone” functionality.
These updates promise to create a cleaner and more user-friendly context menu, allowing users to locate their most commonly used actions with greater ease. Currently, these enhancements are being tested in the latest Dev preview builds of Windows 11, with a broader rollout anticipated for early 2026.
