Summary

  • A new drag-and-drop Tray feature lets you quickly send files without digging through endless menus.
  • The Start menu is getting more customizable, with a new option to switch between a Grid view and a Category view.
  • Windows Search will now let you find images faster by typing a description instead of the file name, even if they’re stored in the cloud.

Microsoft has unveiled two new builds today: KB5052078 for the Beta Channel and KB5052080 for both the Beta and Dev channels. These updates not only address various bugs affecting File Explorer and Power & Battery but also introduce features that have been highly anticipated by Windows users.

Sharing files and navigating the Start menu is about to get much easier

Traditionally, sharing a file on Windows 11 involves a series of clicks: right-clicking the file, selecting Share, and then choosing the desired app or device. While functional, this method can feel cumbersome, often requiring users to sift through multiple options.

With the introduction of the KB5052078 build, users can now take advantage of a new feature called the Drag Tray. This innovative tool simplifies file sharing significantly. By dragging a file from File Explorer to the top of the screen, a tray emerges, displaying a list of apps along with a More options button. This button reveals additional choices, including Nearby Share, streamlining the process of sending files to nearby devices.

Moreover, the latest build enhances the Start menu’s functionality. Users can now customize the All page view, opting for either a Grid or Category layout. The Grid view organizes apps alphabetically, while the Category view groups them by type and usage frequency, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Windows Search will be able to search for images in the cloud

In a move that enhances user experience, Microsoft has expanded its Windows Search capabilities. Initially tested in January, the improved search function allows users to find images by typing a description rather than relying solely on file names. With the rollout of the KB5052080 build to both the Beta and Dev channels, this feature now extends to photos stored in the cloud.

This updated search functionality operates similarly to its predecessor, but now includes cloud-stored images in the results alongside locally saved ones. Users can expect to see not only their personal OneDrive photos but also cloud files that match their search keywords.

However, it’s important to note that this feature is currently exclusive to Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs. Microsoft has indicated that support for AMD and Intel-powered models is forthcoming. The enhanced Windows Search experience is gradually being rolled out to Windows Insiders, promising a more efficient way to locate files across both local and cloud storage.