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Windows 11’s “fast” File Explorer is slower than ever and hogs more RAM
Winsage
December 4, 2025

Windows 11’s “fast” File Explorer is slower than ever and hogs more RAM

Microsoft has introduced a background-preloading update for File Explorer in Windows 11 Insider builds to enhance application speed and smoothness. Initial tests indicate that the preloaded version opens more slowly than the standard Explorer in Windows 10, particularly on devices with limited RAM (4-8 GB), leading to sluggish performance during multitasking. Users have reported slower context menus and folder navigation, despite the intended improvements. Preloading is enabled by default in the Insider build, but Microsoft has not confirmed plans for a broader rollout. The update raises concerns about the efficiency of Windows 11's design, as the combination of older Win32 components with newer WinUI elements may compromise core performance. Users relying on File Explorer may experience delays and unresponsiveness, particularly if their systems have limited resources. Microsoft may reconsider its approach to the preloading feature in future Insider builds, and users experiencing slowdowns might consider disabling it or reducing visual effects to improve performance.
5 third-party tweaks Microsoft needs to implement into Windows 11 natively
Winsage
November 11, 2025

5 third-party tweaks Microsoft needs to implement into Windows 11 natively

Windows 11 has evolved since its launch, but many users feel it lacks certain features. Third-party enhancements can improve the operating system. StartAllBack allows users to customize the Start menu and taskbar, resize icons, re-enable classic context menus, and restore quick access to the Control Panel. PowerToys is a collection of utilities from Microsoft that enhances Windows 11 with tools like PowerRename, a Color Picker, and Keyboard Manager, but these are not included by default. EarTrumpet simplifies audio management, allowing users to switch devices and adjust levels more easily than the default sound settings. Everything (Voidtools) offers a fast alternative to Windows Search by indexing files quickly and providing real-time results. OneCommander modernizes file management with a dual-pane interface, keyboard shortcuts, and cloud service integration. Many of these enhancements could benefit a wider audience if made available for users to enable as needed, rather than being pre-installed.
Microsoft is trying to fix its context menus mess on Windows 11
Winsage
November 7, 2025

Microsoft is trying to fix its context menus mess on Windows 11

Microsoft is addressing user challenges with context menus in Windows 11 by introducing "Split menus," which organize functions more effectively by nesting options within sub-menus. This aims to declutter the main context menu and enhance user experience, allowing for a more intuitive interface in applications. Developers are encouraged to integrate this feature to create cleaner, more navigable menus, improving user interaction and productivity.
Microsoft admits Windows 11's right-click menu is cluttered, confirms fix with a new UI feature
Winsage
November 7, 2025

Microsoft admits Windows 11’s right-click menu is cluttered, confirms fix with a new UI feature

Windows 11 is set to introduce a "Split Context Menu" update for WinUI 3-based applications, aimed at reducing menu clutter and improving usability. This update will implement context-aware nested menus that adapt based on file types, allowing for a more streamlined right-click experience. The new API, SplitMenuFlyoutItem, will enable a single menu entry to display both primary actions and secondary options in a smaller adjacent flyout. This redesign could reduce menu length by up to 38% in some cases. Currently, the Split Context Menu is intended for WinUI applications, with no confirmation on whether it will extend to the entire Windows shell. The update is still in early development and not available for public testing.
How to replace your Windows 11 Start menu with something better - try my favorite or this free option
Winsage
October 30, 2025

How to replace your Windows 11 Start menu with something better – try my favorite or this free option

The Windows 11 Start menu has been criticized for its cumbersome layout and limited customization options. Microsoft has made attempts to improve it, including adding folder creation for shortcuts in late 2022 and a redesign in October 2025, but user dissatisfaction remains. Alternatives to the default Start menu include: - Start11: A paid application by Stardock, available for .99 annually or a permanent license, offering seven layouts, extensive customization options, and the ability to rename, move, and delete folders directly from the menu. - StartAllBack: A more affordable option at .99 per license, providing a simpler interface with three themes and customization of the taskbar and File Explorer features. - Open Shell Menu: A free alternative that allows users to choose from various layouts and customize the Start button, offering a traditional experience without cost. Uninstalling any of these alternatives will revert the system back to the standard Windows 11 Start menu.
Microsoft looks to finally nail File Explorer in Windows 11, and it's adding a 'highly requested' feature – but probably not the one you want
Winsage
October 9, 2025

Microsoft looks to finally nail File Explorer in Windows 11, and it’s adding a ‘highly requested’ feature – but probably not the one you want

Microsoft has rolled out two new preview builds for Windows 11, focusing on improving File Explorer's aesthetics and functionality, particularly for dark mode. The latest build from the Dev channel enhances performance by addressing the sluggishness of context menus and cloud file launching. A feature in the Canary channel allows users to reposition hardware indicators for brightness, volume, airplane mode, and virtual desktops. However, the taskbar in Windows 11 remains immobile, unlike in Windows 10, which has disappointed some users. Microsoft is working on performance enhancements in File Explorer, aiming to improve the responsiveness of right-click menus and cloud file syncing.
Microsoft Extends Dark Mode to File Explorer, Revamps Start Menu in Windows 11 Preview
Winsage
October 8, 2025

Microsoft Extends Dark Mode to File Explorer, Revamps Start Menu in Windows 11 Preview

Microsoft has released an update to the Dark Mode feature in Windows 11, identified as Build 26220.6772, which enhances the dark theme across various File Explorer interactions. This update aligns dialogs for file operations, context menus, progress bars, and file-selection windows with the dark theme, addressing previous inconsistencies. However, some legacy components, such as certain Properties windows, the Run dialog, and parts of the Control Panel, still display in light mode. The update is aimed at Dev Channel insiders to gather feedback for further refinements before broader rollout.
File Explorer's best features available in 2025 on Windows 11 version 25H2 and 24H2
Winsage
October 1, 2025

File Explorer’s best features available in 2025 on Windows 11 version 25H2 and 24H2

In 2025, Microsoft is enhancing File Explorer on Windows 11 with AI features and improved usability. Key updates include: - Microsoft 365 Files: New "Activity" column and "Recommended" section display people icons for users with Microsoft Entra ID accounts. - Windows Share Experience: Users can pin favorite apps in the "Share using" section, generate preview thumbnails when sharing links, and adjust image compression settings. Basic image editing tools for cropping, rotating, and applying filters are now available before sharing. A new flyout suggests apps for quick sharing when dragging files. - File Explorer Address Bar: A file backup reminder can be snoozed or disabled if not already backing up files via OneDrive. - AI Integration: An "AI Actions" menu in the context menu offers features like Bing Visual Search, background blurring, object erasure, and background removal. Microsoft 365 subscribers can summarize files stored in OneDrive and SharePoint. - Performance Improvements: Faster archive extraction for large files and improved loading times for folders with extensive media collections and cloud files. Overall, these enhancements aim to refine and elevate the user experience in file management.
Windows 11 version 25H2 rolls out: All the new features, how to install, and more - The Times of India
Winsage
October 1, 2025

Windows 11 version 25H2 rolls out: All the new features, how to install, and more – The Times of India

Microsoft began rolling out the Windows 11 version 25H2 update on September 30, 2025. This update enhances user experience with improved security features and AI-powered tools, designed as a compact enablement package for users of Windows 11 24H2. It introduces new AI functionalities in File Explorer, including reverse image searches, background blurring, and object removal. The Click to Do functionality has been refined for Copilot+ PCs. Version 25H2 shares its codebase with 24H2, ensuring both receive identical monthly feature updates. Microsoft has improved vulnerability detection and AI-assisted secure coding for enhanced security. New customization options include repositioning on-screen indicators for volume and brightness, along with performance enhancements in File Explorer and a redesigned Advanced Settings page. The update is being gradually deployed through Windows Update, with several installation methods available, including the Installation Assistant, Media Creation Tool, and ISO file. Users on version 24H2 will receive a swift cumulative update, while those on older versions will need to reinstall. Microsoft has removed legacy components like PowerShell 2.0 and plans to monitor compatibility issues during the rollout.
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