This award-winning Windows file explorer app just got an update, and it’s gorgeous
A third-party file manager continues to beat Microsoft’s File Explorer in several ways.
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What you need to know
Microsoft has somemajor improvements in the works for the built-in File Exploreron Windows 11, but you don’t have to wait until later this year to use a modern app to manage your files. A third-party file manager, simply called “Files” already has an interface that fits in on Windows 11, and it just received a major update.
Files V2.5 brings back the acrylic backdrop that was removed when the app migrated from UWP to WinAppSDK. The update also adds swipe gestures for navigating the app. The gestures work with touch screens and touch pads.
The team behind Files also added some features that streamline workflows that rely on Git repositories.
Files App | $8.99 at Microsoft Store
This third-party file explorer has many features people have requested for years from the built-in File Explorer on Windows. It has tabs, column view, file preview, and a customizable interface.
Files V2.5: What’s new
Acrylic backdrop material
We heard the feedback loud and clear: users want the option to set the backdrop material to Acrylic. This feature was removed when we migrated from UWP to WinAppSdk but over the last few months these issues have been resolved and we’re happy to announce that Acrylic is available again.
Swiping gestures for navigation
Swiping gestures allows users to navigate in Files with ease. Swipe from the left to go back, and swipe from the right to go forward. These gestures are compatible with both touch screens and touch pads.
Manage repositories natively with Git
We added a couple of Git features to Files that make it easier to work with Git repositories.
SeerPro
SeerPro is a popular app for previewing files and documents with a single press of the space bar. We’re excited to partner with SeerPro so users with SeerPro can now use this feature from Files. Learn more herehttp://1218.io/.
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Files V2.5: Changes and improvements
Preview and Details pane
Display and edit metadata of multiple files
Display and edit metadata of multiple files in the properties window. Previously it was only possible to edit metadata for a single file at a time.
Windows Central take
I’ve covered Files for years, dating back to itsearly preview in 2020. The app is now on version 2.5. It has steadily gained new features and had its performance improved over the years. Last year,Files won a Microsoft Store app award, which I think it more than earned.
I wouldn’t be surprised if some look at it and assume it is a default app on Windows. It’s attractive, looks like it belongs on Windows, and often includes features before the native Windows File Explorer.
The only complaint I see about Files is that it can lag at times or not perform as quickly as the built-in File Explorer on Windows. I use a much quicker PC than I used to, so I can’t say what performance would be like on an everyday computer. In my testing, Files is quick, fluid, and adds functionality that I wish the Windows File Explorer had.
Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
