Microsoft announces restoration of Win11 file manager classic features and explores other simplified solutions in the future

CTOnews.com June 23, Microsoft recently released a preview update of Win11 Build 23481, removing a number of classic features from the file manager, causing strong dissatisfaction among users.

In the Win11 Build 23486 preview update released today, Microsoft said it actively listened to user feedback, withdrew its previous decision and restored these classic features.

"We are restoring the relevant features in the file manager and will explore other ways to simplify the file manager interface without sacrificing functionality," Microsoft said in a statement.

One of the explorations is to make some features optional or hidden under the Advanced options menu, allowing users to customize the file manager experience according to their own needs.

CTOnews.com previously reported that the file manager features recovered by Microsoft are listed as follows:

Hide folder merge conflicts

Always show icons, never show thumbnails

Display the file icon on the thumbnail

Display file type information on the folder prompt

Hide protected operating system files

Show drive letter

Displays pop-up instructions for folders and desktop items

Display encrypted or compressed NTFS files in color

Using the sharing Wizard

Related readings:

"the new preview version of Microsoft Win11 removes some classic features of file manager, causing dissatisfaction among users."

"Win11 Academy: how to restore the classic file manager functionality in the new preview of Windows 11"