Microsoft has decided to pause the rollout of a new feature for File Explorer on Windows 11, which was designed to showcase “recommended” files in an eye-catching format at the top of the Home tab. This feature, which had been in testing for several months, began its initial rollout to production PCs on October 28. However, as of November 5, the company has opted to halt its public deployment.
Details of the Feature
The changelog for this update describes the feature as one that allows cloud storage providers to display cloud-based placeholder files in File Explorer, akin to the functionality seen with OneDrive. Despite the anticipation surrounding this feature, the reasons for the pause remain unclear, and Microsoft has not provided a timeline for when the rollout might resume. The changelog now states, “These features previously listed in the October 2025 non-security update will roll out at a future date.”
(Image credit: Windows Central)
Microsoft has been developing this recommended files feature for the File Explorer app over the past couple of years. Initially, it was rolled out exclusively to domain-joined Windows 11 PCs, primarily used in professional settings. More recently, the company expanded its testing to include consumer-facing PCs as well.
This feature is designed to display recently downloaded or opened applications and files prominently at the top of the File Explorer home tab, complete with large thumbnails. Additionally, it highlights recent activity from shared documents and cloud files sourced from OneDrive. Importantly, users have the option to disable this feature if they prefer not to use it.
While the rollout of this feature has been temporarily halted, there is an expectation that it will make a return in the near future, allowing users to benefit from its enhanced functionality.
