Windows 11 KB5014770 (Build 22621.160) is now rolling out to
users in the Beta Channel and it’s the first cumulative preview
update for version 22H2 with a few new features, including tabs
support in File Explorer.
Microsoft previously said that they had nothing to share when
users asked about tabs support in Windows 11 22H2’s File
Explorer, leading to speculation that it wouldn’t debut
alongside the major update. At that time, many were expecting
File Explorer tabs support via a cumulative update later this
year.
Now, it looks like Microsoft has changed its plans and it has
already started testing tabs for File Explorer in version 22H2
via the cumulative preview updates. As you’re probably aware,
Windows 11 22H2 has already reached RTM status (release to
manufacturer) and it’s now being readied for a wider audience.
As you can see in the above screenshot, Windows 11 KB5014770
adds the long-awaited tabs to File Explorer. Like your web
browser, you can create a new tab by tapping on the plus icon
and then move tabs within the tab stripe i.e the title bar of
File Explorer on Windows 11.
The animation is pretty smooth and it’s also possible to close
a tab by clicking on the ‘x’ icon. You can open a folder in a
new tab by right-clicking on the folder, and then selecting
‘open in new tab’. This will open the folder in the tab and you
can easily work on multiple directories at the same time.
File Explorer has also been updated with a new left navigation
pane i.e the sidebar on the left side. The new navigation panel
is WinUI inspired and it promises a clean look with an easy way
to navigate to folders that matter to you. For example, the
redesigned sidebar provides quick access to pinned and
frequently used folders.
Your OneDrive cloud profiles are added to Windows 11 and
they’re associated with the account.
Likewise, there’s another change that will hide Windows folders
which are available by default in the navigation pane. “This
PC” to keep that view focused on your PC’s drives.
“When you navigate to folders syncing to OneDrive such as
Documents, Pictures, etc., the address bar displays the correct
path to help bring clarity when your folders are on the cloud
vs when they are local to you,” Microsoft noted.
Microsoft is still rolling out the new File Explorer experience
and it won’t show up for everyone.
