Windows 11 is enhancing its File Explorer with a series of new features aimed at improving user experience, particularly in the realm of tabs and window management. With the recent Build 22635.4580 (KB5046733), users can now enjoy the convenience of having their tabs restored alongside their windows upon logging back in, provided they enable the “Restore previous windows on logon” setting.
This update addresses a common concern raised by users on the Feedback Hub, where the inability to restore previously open tabs after a shutdown was noted. To fully leverage this feature, it is advisable to also activate the “Automatically save my restartable apps and restart them when I sign back in” option. Once these settings are configured, users can seamlessly resume their workflow, as File Explorer will reopen with all previously active tabs and windows intact.
More File Explorer features
But the enhancements don’t stop there. Microsoft is also testing additional features for File Explorer that promise to streamline tab management. One notable improvement is the smarter tab control, which prevents the creation of multiple windows when opening folders from different locations. Instead, clicking on a folder from the desktop while already in File Explorer will now open that folder as a new tab within the existing window, mirroring the tab functionality found in browsers like Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome.
While this change is designed to enhance efficiency, some users may prefer the traditional experience of having each folder open in a new window. Fortunately, this behavior can be adjusted in File Explorer’s settings under General > Browse Folders.
<figure id="attachment77192″ aria-describedby=”caption-attachment-77192″ class=”wp-caption aligncenter”><figcaption id="caption-attachment77192″ class=”wp-caption-text”>Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com
Furthermore, Microsoft is addressing user feedback regarding the “Start backup” reminder that appears in the File Explorer address bar. Previously, these reminders could be quite persistent, requiring users to navigate through Settings to disable them. The latest update simplifies this process, allowing users to right-click the “Start OneDrive” symbol to either snooze or dismiss the backup alerts with ease.
<figure id="attachment77183″ aria-describedby=”caption-attachment-77183″ class=”wp-caption aligncenter”><figcaption id="caption-attachment77183″ class=”wp-caption-text”>You can right-click and turn off these reminders | Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com
Looking ahead, these features are expected to roll out with Windows 11 24H2 in early 2025, with a tentative start date in February. As Microsoft continues to refine the user experience in File Explorer, these updates reflect a commitment to enhancing productivity and user satisfaction.
