: Microsoft fixes Windows 11 File Explorer’s more annoying issues for Patch Tuesday

Windows 11 users who have experienced frustrating bugs with File Explorer may find relief in the latest update, KB5053598, released as part of Microsoft’s Patch Tuesday. This update promises to address several persistent issues that have plagued users, enhancing overall functionality and performance.

Windows 11 24H2’s KB5053598 Update Includes File Explorer Fixes

According to a recent post on Microsoft Support, the KB5053598 update may initially appear to be a routine security patch. However, it also introduces the KB5052093 patch, which has transitioned from the Preview build to a full release, bringing with it a host of notable improvements.

Among the most significant fixes is the correction of a common mislabeling issue where hard drives (HDD) were incorrectly identified as solid-state drives (SSD). Additionally, users will benefit from a resolution to a color mismatch bug affecting the Start menu when accessing the account manager flyout menu.

The update focuses heavily on enhancing File Explorer, addressing several performance issues, including:

• Improved loading times for folders containing a large number of media files.
• Resolution of a non-responsive address bar.
• Enhanced context menu support for cloud files.

As the update rolls out gradually, not all users will receive it simultaneously. Here’s a summary of the key fixes included in the KB5052093 update:

Gradual Rollout

• [Task Manager] Fixed an issue where an HDD might be identified as an SSD.
• [Taskbar] New functionality allows users to share files directly from a jump list on the taskbar.
• [Windows Spotlight]
  • New! Users can now hover over background images to learn more about them.
  • New! The Windows Spotlight icon has been updated for better visibility.
• [Lock screen] Enhanced functionality for learning more about lock screen images.
• [Narrator] Introduced new functions for improved navigation through long texts.
• [File Explorer]
  • New! Users can now snooze or disable the “Start backup” reminder in the address bar.
  • Fixed performance issues when loading folders with numerous files.
  • Resolved issues with the address bar not directing to the correct URL.
  • Improved context menu response time for cloud files.

Improvements

This non-security update also encompasses various quality improvements. Key areas addressed include:

• [Hyper-V] Fixed an error related to Quick Create.
• [Daylight Saving Time] Updated support for DST changes in Paraguay.
• [Remote Desktop] Resolved display rendering issues and responsiveness problems.

Older Operating Systems Get Standard Fixes

For those using older versions of Windows, the latest updates primarily consist of standard security fixes. While these updates may not introduce significant changes, they are essential for maintaining system security. Below is a summary of the updates available for various Windows versions: