Windows 11 Build 27818: Enhanced Zip Extraction and Controversial Changes

Microsoft's latest Windows 11 Preview Build is turning heads with performance improvements that cater to users dealing with vast archives. The recent Build 27818, released on the Canary Channel on March 21, 2025, brings a significant enhancement to File Explorer’s zip extraction capabilities. This update addresses one of the longstanding frustrations for many Windows users—speed and efficiency when unzipping large archives, particularly those packed with numerous small files.

A Closer Look at the Zip Extraction Enhancement​

Microsoft’s performance-focused tweak in Build 27818 specifically targets the extraction process in File Explorer. Previously, unzipping a large archive could slow down workflows considerably, especially when the archive comprised a multitude of tiny files—a scenario familiar to many professionals and enthusiasts alike. With the new update, users can expect:
• Faster extraction times for zips containing many small files
• A more responsive File Explorer interface during large batch extractions
• An overall streamlined file management experience
The changelog, succinct yet promising, stated that Microsoft “did some more work to improve the performance of extracting zipped files in File Explorer, particularly where you're unzipping a large number of small files.” This nod to enhancing everyday usability underlines the company’s ongoing commitment to fine-tuning even the seemingly minor aspects of the operating system that significantly impact productivity.

Building on Archive Handling Improvements​

This recent improvement isn’t an isolated incident in Microsoft’s roadmap. Over the past year, Microsoft has been rolling out several archive handling updates. Users have already seen native support for less-common compressed file formats like RAR, 7z, and TAR directly within File Explorer. However, it’s important to note that while viewing and opening these formats have become more integrated, extracting files from these archives still depends on external utilities.
The enhanced performance for zip extractions reflects a deeper strategic focus—ensuring that the handling of compressed files, a frequent task for millions of users, is as frictionless as possible. When considering real-world scenarios like managing backups, organizing project files, or simply decompressing download packages, this seemingly small update can translate to significant time savings and a smoother workflow.

The Removal of Clipboard Suggested Actions​

While the faster zip extraction is a win for many, Build 27818 also introduces a controversial change— the removal of 'suggested actions' pop-ups. These pop-ups previously activated when users copied certain data to the clipboard. For instance, copying phone numbers or future dates would trigger options to create calendar events or launch a dialer app via Skype. This convenience feature, which many had grown accustomed to, is now being phased out.
The update is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to phase out Skype. With the messaging service set to be fully shut down on May 5, 2025, Microsoft is pivoting towards more modern solutions like its Teams platform. Although some users have expressed discontent, considering the suggested actions a handy tool, the company’s decision reflects a broader push towards harmonizing its communication suite under a unified banner.

Balancing Performance and User Convenience​

This update exemplifies the delicate balancing act that companies like Microsoft must perform: enhancing performance while managing user expectations and habits. The speeding up of zip extraction clearly benefits users who routinely handle archived files, a common scenario for both enterprise professionals and everyday users sharing large document collections, software packages, or multimedia content. However, the removal of a popular clipboard feature illustrates the inevitable trade-offs involved in any major software update.
Ask yourself: Is a faster file extraction process worth sacrificing the convenient clipboard prompts? For many productivity-focused users, improved performance in File Explorer could very well outweigh the minor loss of this feature, especially when every second counts. On the other hand, users who have integrated these prompts into their daily workflows might feel a tinge of nostalgia for a feature that once added an extra layer of convenience.

The Bigger Picture: A Streamlined, Future-Ready Windows 11​

Looking at Build 27818 as a whole, it becomes clear that Microsoft is continuously refining Windows 11 to meet the evolving demands of modern computing. Some key takeaways include:
• Enhanced file management experiences through performance improvements that boost everyday productivity
• A clear signal of Microsoft’s commitment to phasing out legacy components in favor of integrated, modern solutions
• Insight into how user feedback can drive iterative changes that focus on both speed and simplicity

Real-World Implications​

Imagine a scenario where a graphic design agency needs to distribute hundreds of compressed project archives to its team daily. Previously, the extraction process could have been a bottleneck, causing delays and frustration. With the latest update, not only is the extraction process significantly faster, but it also delivers a smoother experience when managing countless files at once. This improvement can have cascading benefits in terms of overall workflow efficiency and user satisfaction.
Similarly, IT professionals who manage software deployments might find the increased extraction speed particularly useful when uncompressing update packages or handling backup archives. It’s a small change on the surface, but one that can yield substantial productivity gains in high-demand environments.

Forward-Looking Considerations​

While the enhanced zip extraction and other performance tweaks bring immediate benefits, they also hint at Microsoft’s broader ambitions for Windows 11. With ongoing efforts to integrate more robust file handling capabilities directly within File Explorer, users might soon see even more seamless interactions with various file formats. Furthermore, Microsoft’s gradual move away from legacy services like Skype in favor of Teams shows its intent to streamline its ecosystem—guiding users towards solutions that better align with contemporary communication trends and cloud-based collaboration.
In keeping with these developments, Windows experts and enthusiasts are encouraged to actively participate in the Insider program. By testing features like those in Build 27818, users not only gain early access to performance enhancements but also play a crucial role in shaping the future trajectory of Windows 11.

Conclusion​

Build 27818 of Windows 11 Preview is a testament to Microsoft’s continuous drive for improvement. On one side, the accelerated performance in zip extraction offers tangible benefits for those who regularly manage compressed files. On the other, the removal of familiar clipboard actions raises questions about user convenience versus the need for modernization.
As Microsoft steers Windows 11 into the future, it remains clear that user feedback is a major guiding force behind these changes. Whether you’re a developer, IT professional, or a general Windows user, the latest improvements carve out a faster, cleaner pathway in handling everyday computing tasks. The evolution of File Explorer—and Windows 11 as a whole—continues to be shaped by a combination of innovative performance upgrades and the bold decisions that come with phasing out legacy features.
The question now is: How will these changes influence your workflow? Share your thoughts and experiences with the new update, and be a part of the conversation that shapes the future of Windows.

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Source: Evrim Ağacı Microsoft Enhances Zip Extraction Speed In Windows 11