Windows 11 has undergone a significant transformation with its context menu, replacing the traditional right-click option with a modern interface. While the new context menu is visually appealing and user-friendly, it has notably lacked a much-requested feature: the ‘Refresh’ button. Fortunately, Microsoft is addressing this oversight, with plans to reintroduce the ‘Refresh’ option in the coming weeks.
Currently, File Explorer operates with two distinct right-click menus. The default is the modern context menu, designed using WinUI, while the optional legacy context menu offers more robust functionality. Although these menus differ in appearance, they operate similarly, with the modern version missing several key features, including ‘Refresh’ and ‘Print.’ Microsoft has justified this omission by pointing out that the refresh function is accessible via the address bar. However, many users prefer the convenience of right-clicking to refresh a folder, particularly on larger displays.
In addition to the anticipated ‘Refresh’ button, users will soon be able to print files directly from the modern context menu, a feature that previously required accessing the legacy menu. Microsoft is also working on streamlining the modern right-click menu to reduce clutter and enhance speed in future updates. Beyond the context menus, improvements are being made to the Details view in File Explorer, providing users with clearer file size information.
File Explorer’s Details view now shows more readable file sizes
At present, when users download files, the size is displayed uniformly in kilobytes (KB), regardless of the actual size. For instance, a 5KB file appears as expected, but an 8GB Windows 11 ISO is also shown in KB, resulting in a less intuitive user experience. This will soon change, as File Explorer will start displaying file sizes in appropriate units such as KB, MB, or GB, making it easier for users to gauge file sizes at a glance. This enhancement will also apply to the Details pane on the right side of the interface.
Moreover, Microsoft is set to improve the address bar functionality in File Explorer, allowing for greater flexibility in navigating directories. Users will be able to enter paths with double backslashes or quotation marks, enhancing compatibility and usability.
Here’s a summary of the changes coming to File Explorer:
- File Explorer will accurately display renamed files.
- The address bar will now close correctly when an item is selected from the suggestions.
- Keyboard shortcuts and navigation will be smoother in File Explorer flyouts, including the context menu.
These updates are currently available in Windows 11 Experimental Build 26300.8376 and are expected to roll out to all users in the upcoming weeks, accompanied by new touchpad gestures for an even more intuitive experience.
