Microsoft released a new update for Windows 11 users that adds a long waiting feature called "Tabs Layout" in the File Explorer window. The latest update is rolling out as Windows 11 Build 25136 to the Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel. This update also brings a refreshed layout of the left navigation pane.
If you want to try this feature now, you need to register as a Windows Insider and switch to the Dev Channel. For more information about the File Explorer improvements in this build, continue reading further.
What’s new in Windows 11 Build 25136
File Explorer Tabs & Navigation Updates
Do you work with multiple File Explorer windows opened at a time? Do you find it frustrating while switching from one File Explorer window to another by pressing the ALT + TAB keyboard shortcuts? Well, your frustrations are now going over.
With the Windows 11 (Preview) Build 25136, Microsoft now introduces a tab view in the File Explorer. It was the most popular feature request by all users running Microsoft Windows operating system. The tabs will reside at the top, just like Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or any other windows supporting tab view.
The latest build also introduces a refreshed layout of the left navigation pane of the File Explorer which makes it easy for you to navigate to folders. The updated layout provides you easy access to your pinned and frequently used folders (Quick access) and your OneDrive cloud profiles added to Windows.
If you use OneDrive, you will now notice that the cloud profiles reflect the user’s name associated with the account. With this build, Microsoft no longer displays the Known Windows folders (which are available by default in the navigation pane) under "This PC". This change has been made 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 will now display the correct path to help bring clarity on whether your folders are on the cloud or available locally to you.