Files v4.0 is the ultimate ‘File Explorer’ replacement for Windows 11 — bringing a Fluent‑style redesign for Microsoft apps

Even though Windows 11 was launched more than four years ago, it has faced difficulties in becoming popular among users compared to its previous version, Windows 10. However, in recent times, Windows 11 has managed to secure the largest share of the desktop operating system market at 49.08%, exceeding Windows 10’s 45.53%.

Previously, many people have stated a fondness for Windows 10, often due to concerns about Windows 11’s problematic design aspects and demanding hardware prerequisites that make it difficult for them to transition to this new operating system.

For any dedicated Windows user, the File Explorer application plays a vital role in the operating system, where you might often find yourself spending a good portion of your time (apart from web browsers). It’s worth noting that Microsoft has been consistently enhancing and incorporating useful features into this app. One such addition is AI capabilities, enabling users to execute swift actions by right-clicking a file, for instance, blurring the background or conducting a Bing Visual Search.

It’s worth noting that while Windows 11’s built-in File Explorer effectively accomplishes its tasks, some users may suggest that superior alternatives exist among third-party apps. For instance, the ‘Files’ app, which has recently been updated to version 4.0, is another option for those seeking a potentially more efficient file management solution.

This upgrade comes packed with numerous innovative additions such as an improved icon that unveils a revamped logo concept featuring bolder colors, aligning with visually appealing Microsoft apps designed under the Fluent system. Below, you’ll find comprehensive details about this update, encompassing novel features and bug fixes:

The upgrade arrives laden with a multitude of fresh features like an upgraded icon showcasing a revitalized logo scheme that boasts more vibrant colors, harmonizing with aesthetically pleasing Microsoft apps created using the Fluent design. Here’s all you need to know regarding the upgrade, featuring new functionalities and bug solutions:

Or in a more conversational tone:

The update comes loaded with loads of exciting new features, including a brand-new look for its icon that showcases a revamped logo concept with more intense colors – perfect for Microsoft apps designed using the Fluent system! Here’s all the scoop on this update, with the latest enhancements and bug fixes:

Files v4: Whats new

Updated icon

In the role of an enthusiastic user, I’m thrilled about the upgrade to version 4.0, which features a revamped logo design that boasts deeper colors, making it harmoniously blend with other Microsoft applications beautifully crafted under the Fluent design system.

Omnibar

As a devoted user, I’m thrilled about the significant overhaul in Files v4.0, introducing the Omnibar – a game-changing design that seamlessly replaces the conventional Address Bar. This innovative control fuses the path bar and search box into one sleek, user-friendly interface. To toggle between navigation and search modes, I can click the mode buttons or employ the clever keyboard shortcuts designated for each function. It’s a fantastic upgrade that makes navigating my files an even more enjoyable experience!

A powerful Command Palette mode provides access to advanced commands and actions.

Dual Pane

The Dual View feature allows you to simultaneously see and handle two directories, making it easy to move files between locations without needing to switch screens. We’ve added several updates to the Dual View function to boost your user experience.

You can now toggle Dual Pane mode by pressing Ctrl+Shift+S.
We added a dedicated settings section for Dual Pane under Settings → Layout → Dual Pane.
New panes now open with the same path you’re currently viewing.
The “Add pane” option is now labeled “Split pane”.

Filtering and search

To minimize potential misunderstandings between searching and filtering, we’ve broken them down into distinct functionalities. The search function uses the Windows Search index to conduct broad inquiries across all indexed locations. On the other hand, the ‘filter’ feature narrows down the items you observe within the current folder.

Search is available by pressing Ctrl+F or by clicking the search icon in the Omnibar.

Activating the filter header can be done either by clicking the toolbar button or using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+Shift+F. This filter function operates directly on the open directory, so it doesn’t need an index for its functionality. By doing this, you stay within your current context and see real-time results as they are being filtered.

Developer tools and git

You’re now able to reassign the “Open IDE” command to any editor in the settings, located at “Settings > Developer Tools”. This allows for greater flexibility as you can customize your coding environment to suit your preferred editor.

When you input a GitHub link into Files, a prompt appears asking you to clone it. The cloning process’s status will then be shown in the Status Center.

Cloud drives

Files now supports MagentaCLOUD, Sync, and OX Drive integration, expanding your options for cloud storage access directly in the app. The full list of available cloud drives can be viewed on our cloud drive documentation.
OneDrive storage usage is now displayed in the Properties window on Windows 11.

Compare hashes

In the Properties window, under the ‘Hashes’ tab, you’ll find a fresh option named ‘Compare File Hash’. This feature allows for swift verification of a file’s hash against a previously known value or another file, making it easier to ensure the file’s integrity.

File signatures

In the updated Properties section, there’s now a freshly added tab named Digital Signatures. This allows for an instant verification of a file’s integrity simply by taking a quick look.

Columns View

As an analyst, I’ve found a convenient feature in our system: the Columns View. This view now intelligently adjusts each column’s width according to its file names for a cleaner and more readable layout. Additionally, you have the option to manually resize columns by dragging their dividers. If you find that a column has become too narrow or too wide, simply click on the divider twice to snap it back to its optimal size. This feature makes navigating through our data a breeze!

Status Center

You can now control when the Status Center icon is visible under Settings → Appearance → Toolbars → Status Center. By default, the icon is always visible, but you can configure it to appear only when tasks are in progress.
Notification badges clear automatically when you open the Status Center.
Font installation progress is now displayed in the Status Center.

Actions settings page

The “Actions Settings” page has been designed to automatically adjust for smaller screen dimensions. Additionally, we’ve included a search bar where you can swiftly sift through commands.

Customizable file size units

Now, you have the option to display file sizes using either binary values like MiB, or traditional decimal units such as MB. You can modify this preference by navigating to Settings > Files & Folders > Size Format.

Sidebar

The settings button has been relocated from the address bar to the left-hand sidebar.
Right clicking the settings button displays an option to open the raw JSON file.
If you hide all the sidebar sections, you’ll now see helpful placeholder content.

Context menu

Access keys are now displayed in the right-click context menu when holding down the ‘alt’ key.
We added support for turning off the ‘Open in Terminal’ option in the right click context menu. This setting can be accessed from Settings → General → Context menu options .

Quick access to diagnostics

You can now open the log file and folder with keyboard shortcuts:

To open the log file, press Ctrl+.
To open the log folder, press Ctrl+Shift+.

Localization

We’ve extended the languages we support, now including Armenian. This move aims to increase accessibility for users worldwide. Our localized versions are looked after by our devoted community contributors.

Other highlights

You can now browse all supported image formats when selecting a background in Settings.
You can now browse all supported icon file formats when selecting an icon in Properties.
We’ve replaced the Release Notes dialog with a dedicated tab that opens automatically after updating Files. This makes it easier to explore what’s new and improved in each release.
We’ve improved the performance of the Quick Access widget on the Home Page.
The review prompt in the Store version of Files will now appear only once per user, and only after 30 sessions. Additionally, the prompt no longer blocks user input and is designed to be less disruptive.
Experimental support for long file paths allows you to work with directories and filenames that exceed traditional Windows limits, opening up more possibilities for complex projects.

Files v4.0: Fixes

Updates and release notes

Fixed an issue where an error dialog would sometimes appear after updating Files.
Fixed a crash that would sometimes occur during updates.
Fixed an issue where the WebView process for the Release Notes page would remain open in the background.
Fixed an issue where the Release Notes page sometimes used the wrong theme.

Settings dialog

Fixed an issue where the Windows version was copied incorrectly.
Fixed an issue where the icon for “developer tools” didn’t display properly on Windows 10.

Sorting and grouping

Fixed sorting issues with files containing #-# numbering.
Fixed an issue where name sorting was case-sensitive.
Fixed misaligned group header text.

Shortcuts and commands

Fixed an issue where the “Run with PowerShell” action didn’t pass the working directory.
Fixed an issue where the delete key didn’t work after removing an item from the selection.
Fixed an issue preventing file selection via keyboard.
Fixed an issue where the Home key didn’t move focus while renaming items.

Navigation and layout

Fixed an issue where the Home Page didn’t properly refresh.
Fixed an issue where adaptive layout removed focus from the active pane.
Fixed an issue where the inactive pane would steal focus during file changes.
Fixed an issue where switching layouts incorrectly focused the right-hand pane.
Fixed an issue where the ‘layout’ icon didn’t match the selected layout.
Fixed RTL support (please note that some areas are still missing support).
Fixed an issue where the Cleanup and Format options were incorrectly displayed for Cloud Drives.
Fixed an issue where the Status Center didn’t display file-operation sizes.
Fixed an issue with deleting items that didn’t fit in Recycle Bin.
Fixed an issue preventing folders ending in .url from opening properly.
Fixed errors that sometimes occurred with shortcuts in Git repositories.
Fixed a crash that would occur when using an invalid background image.
Fixed an issue where text in the permissions page wrapped incorrectly.
Fixed an issue where the sidebar flickered when resizing the properties window.
Fixed an issue where installing multiple instances of Files (e.g. Files – Preview) would unpin Recycle Bin from the sidebar.
Fixed an issue with clearing selection via touch.

Toolbar

Fixed an issue where toolbar buttons sometimes displayed the wrong icon state.
Fixed an issue where the extract button was sometimes missing from the toolbar.
Fixed the menu label for overflow items in the toolbar.

2025-09-03 15:16