Microsoft Edge Update: Say Goodbye to Yellow Folders, Hello Minimalism

Microsoft Edge is at it again—rolling out an update that has our tech-savvy and aesthetic-conscious users question, "Is minimalist truly better?" If you’ve updated your Edge browser recently, chances are you’ve noticed something peculiar in your Favorites toolbar: Gone are the cheerful yellow folders. Poof! They've been replaced by a more minimalist, transparent, monoline design. Depending on where you stand on the design spectrum, this change is either delightfully streamlined—or a total buzzkill. Let’s dig into what’s changed, why it matters (or doesn’t), and how to bring back those yellow folder icons if you’re feeling nostalgic.

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The Heart of the Update: Bye-Bye Yellow, Hello Transparent​

In Microsoft Edge version 131.0.2903.112, the folder icons in the Favorites toolbar have gone through what can only be described as a digital makeover. Previously, these folders were vibrantly yellow, making them stand out in your browser toolbar. Now? They’re ultra-modern, transparent, and follow a monoline design aesthetic—think of them as the Marie Kondo of browser UX (User Experience): clean, neat, and chanting "less is more."

Why Did Microsoft Do This?​

Great question, weary user! While Microsoft didn’t exactly release a Shakespearean soliloquy defending the change, the reasoning here likely ties into broader UX trends. Modern software design often favors clean, minimal interfaces. The yellow folders may have screamed "90s nostalgia," but the new look aims for consistency with the Windows 11 Fluent Design language—think airy, translucent, and polished edges.
For many, this tweak is reflective of Microsoft’s efforts to make Edge feel like an integral part of Windows 11. But, let’s face it, the verdict is still out on whether this tiny transformation actually brings delight to users—or fuels their frustration.

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The Great Debate: Love It or Hate It?​

If one thing’s for sure, the internet is not shy about opinions. Users on forums and Reddit have been vocal (to put it lightly). Here’s a snapshot of the mixed bag of reactions:

• Positive Takes:
• Some users love it, calling the new monoline folders "sleek" and "modern."
• Fans of decluttered designs find these transparent folders less intrusive and more harmonious with Edge’s overall aesthetic.
• "Fits perfectly into the Windows 11 UI and doesn't look gaudy," said one design enthusiast.
• Negative Takes (Cue the Angry Typing):
• "Why fix what isn’t broken?"—expressing frustration that Microsoft would change such a small feature, seemingly without a strong reason.
• Lack of customization options has further irked users. Those who liked the yellow folders now have no built-in way to bring them back.
• "They just disappeared mid-session for me!" One user hilariously described the change as a ghost haunting their browser.

It might just come down to personal taste, but this isn’t the first time Microsoft has left users scratching their heads with its UI experiments.

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How to Revert to the Classic Yellow Folders (For Now)​

Good news for the folks who simply can't deal with the transparent folders anymore: There’s a hack to bring back the yellow folder icons! However, bear in mind that this workaround may only work temporarily. Here’s how you can do it:

Step-by-Step Instructions:​

• Locate Microsoft Edge (msedge.exe):
  Open the Windows Search Panel and type msedge.exe. Right-click the result and choose Open File Location.
• Modify Edge Shortcut:
• Locate the shortcut for Edge and right-click it.
• Open Properties and navigate to the Shortcut tab.
• Update the Target Field:
• In the Target field, add the following command at the end of the text:
  --disable-features=msFavoritesMonolineFolder.
• It should look something like this:
  "C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application\msedge.exe" --disable-features=msFavoritesMonolineFolder
• Apply Changes:
  Hit Apply and then OK to save your changes.
• Restart Edge:
  Close and reopen your browser. Voilà! Your beloved yellow folders should return.

Pro Tip: Keep in mind that this is a temporary solution. Microsoft might disable this adjustment via future updates, so enjoy it while it lasts!

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Why This Change Matters​

Sure, folder aesthetics might seem like minor fluff in the grander scheme of Microsoft's plans, but these kinds of updates are part of what makes user experience so critical. Design tweaks—no matter how small—can significantly impact how people interact with a product. The outrage over Edge’s design changes speaks to a simple truth: Users value familiarity.
This also isn’t the last time Microsoft Edge will make headlines for its subtle shake-ups. From on-device AI scanning for scams to improved OCR-based PDF readers, Edge seems fired up about being more than just “that browser you use to download Chrome.” On-device AI and PDF features are certainly practical, but design choices like these transparent folders remind us that user experience is more than a feature; it’s a conversation.

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Our Verdict? Embrace the Chaos—Or Customize, If You Can​

Design updates like this one serve as a reminder that big tech giants like Microsoft are always A/B testing their audiences. For those who appreciate the minimal design, this move might be a win. But for those who love their mustard-yellow folders, it’s understandable that they’d find this update frustrating, especially without built-in theme customization to retain the classics.
Microsoft Edge continues to show promise as a browser that competes not just with Chrome but stands strong on its own merits. Whether the transparent look wins over enough hearts, however, we’ll have to wait and see.
Do you love Microsoft’s fresh take—or does this change drive you bananas? Let us know in the comments: Monoline Transparent vs. Classic Yellow—where do you stand?

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Source: Windows Latest Microsoft Edge drops yellow for folders (favourites), gets monoline transparent look