Windows 11 Insider Update offers First Explorer Innovations

The recently announced changes to Windows 11 Explorer are now making their way to the Insider Previews beta and dev channel. Among many other improvements and bug fixes, Build 22593 includes the new homepage and file favorites. After the integration of hidden functions and the official confirmation a few days ago, it is clear that Explorer under Windows 11 is getting a makeover.

Microsoft’s first efforts can now be seen in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22593. While testers in the beta and dev channels will still have to do without tabs (workaround available), the Redmond-based company is already adding the new homepage to Explorer. In addition to quick folder access, this also includes the new file favorites.

Updates to the pen menu, and snap layouts including bug fixes

Other new features of the latest Insider update include the integration of the new Microsoft Journal app within the handwriting recognition quick selection (pen menu). An appropriate icon is now displayed by default next to commonly used programs, such as the Snipping Tool. Furthermore, the so-called snap layouts have been improved.

The keyboard shortcut “Windows key + Z” calls up the snap menu of open programs introduced with Windows 11, whose layouts are now numbered and thus allow faster window size adjustment via the keyboard. From the official Patch Notes, there are many more changes, including the taskbar, start menu, search, and general explorer functionality. While experts assume users will see most of the new features in the Windows 11 22H2 (Sun Valley 2) update, slated for fall 2022, Microsoft is still hesitant to give any official confirmation. The past hybrid work event was not used to confirm the upcoming major patch or even to publish a schedule.