Microsoft is updating File Explorer in Windows 11 to make it load quicker and look less crowded. In the latest Dev preview builds, File Explorer now uses a preloading system that runs quietly in the background.
This helps the app open faster, especially on devices with limited performance. While File Explorer already opens instantly on modern PCs, slower tablets and handheld Windows devices should see a noticeable improvement.
Users will still have the option to turn off preloading if they don’t want File Explorer running in the background. Most computers won’t need it, but the feature works similarly to Microsoft’s earlier tweak to Word, where a small startup task helps Office apps open more quickly.
Microsoft is also refreshing the File Explorer context menu to make it cleaner and easier to use. Less common actions are being moved into organized submenus instead of taking up space in the main menu. A new “manage file” flyout now groups actions like creating ZIP files, copying a file path, setting an image as the desktop background, and rotating photos.
Cloud-based options are also getting their own dedicated “cloud provider” flyout. This is where users will see features like Send to My Phone and other cloud service tools. Overall, the redesigned menu looks much cleaner and helps users quickly find the actions they use most.
These improvements are currently available in the latest Windows 11 Dev preview builds and are expected to roll out to all users in early 2026.
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