For ages, navigating Windows File Explorer has felt like embarking on a road trip only to lose your map every time the car restarts. Countless Windows users have faced the eternal frustration of setting up perfectly streamlined tabs in File Explorer, only to reboot their device and find everything wiped clean as if it never happened. Well, rejoice! Windows 11 is making strides to address this long-standing pain point—by finally introducing the ability to restore tabs and folder views post-reboot.
Let’s dive into what this update means, how it works, and why it’s such a monumental win for users who’ve been clamoring for smarter multitasking capabilities.
The most frustrating limitation? File Explorer tabs vanished the moment you rebooted your device. Users would spend considerable effort organizing tasks, files, and directories across multiple tabs for efficient workflow. But whether you hit restart or experienced an unplanned shutdown, everything reset, often leaving users scrambling to recreate their setups. This might sound like a "small issue," but for power users juggling projects, directories, and files, it was a rage-inducing oversight.
For those rolling with pre-release builds, this feature is reportedly already up and running in the beta preview channel. Be sure to check your Insider build updates if you’re interested in testing this functionality before it officially rolls out to the general public.
Here’s how it will likely work (based on similar features in other apps):
Here’s why this update matters:
Is it enough to compete with third-party tools? That remains to be seen. But one thing is for sure—2024’s version of File Explorer might finally start feeling like a product designed with users in mind. And for long-time Windows aficionados, that’s reason enough to celebrate.
Are you excited about this update, or have you moved on to a different file management tool altogether? Share your thoughts on the forum. Let’s discuss!
Source: Poc Network Upcoming File Explorer update in Windows 11 restores tabs on reboot (finally)
Let’s dive into what this update means, how it works, and why it’s such a monumental win for users who’ve been clamoring for smarter multitasking capabilities.
The Problem: File Explorer and Forgotten Tabs
File Explorer, a staple of Windows operating systems, has been both loved and loathed for its simplicity and limited customization options. With recent iterations, Microsoft introduced tabbed browsing within File Explorer—a feature akin to what we're familiar with in web browsers—and it was met with a resounding cheer from Windows enthusiasts. However, the functionality did not come without its glaring shortcomings.The most frustrating limitation? File Explorer tabs vanished the moment you rebooted your device. Users would spend considerable effort organizing tasks, files, and directories across multiple tabs for efficient workflow. But whether you hit restart or experienced an unplanned shutdown, everything reset, often leaving users scrambling to recreate their setups. This might sound like a "small issue," but for power users juggling projects, directories, and files, it was a rage-inducing oversight.
The Solution: A Promising Beta Preview
According to the latest insider build news, Microsoft has finally decided to address the elephant in the room. A recent (beta) preview in the Windows Insiders program has debuted a Restore Tabs on Reboot option for File Explorer. This feature allows users to save the state of their tabs and folders. When the system is rebooted, File Explorer will return to the exact configuration it had before the shutdown.For those rolling with pre-release builds, this feature is reportedly already up and running in the beta preview channel. Be sure to check your Insider build updates if you’re interested in testing this functionality before it officially rolls out to the general public.
Here’s how it will likely work (based on similar features in other apps):
- File Explorer could now auto-save its state upon shutting down, using something akin to session persistence.
- Tabs, open directories, and possibly positioning/arrangement on the screen could all be resumed seamlessly.
- Users may toggle this feature on or off via the Settings panel, allowing greater control for those who prefer the classic behavior.
Why Is This Such a Big Deal?
For decades, Windows users have compared File Explorer to third-party file management tools like XYplorer, Directory Opus, and Total Commander. A significant portion of users—including the author of the original article criticizing File Explorer—has opted to jump ship in favor of these richly featured alternatives. One of the key reasons? The lack of intuitive features like the ability to remember tabs and settings across sessions.Here’s why this update matters:
- Productivity Booster: Whether you’re coding, working on multiple projects, or managing large amounts of data, reopening tabs manually was a ridiculous productivity killer.
- Cohesion Across Devices: For those who work across several devices running Windows 11, this becomes a seamless experience akin to syncing tabs on a browser.
- Modernization of File Explorer: Let’s be honest, File Explorer has long lagged behind its competitors in flexibility. A feature like tab persistence signals that Microsoft is not just playing catch-up but is actually listening to user demands.
Looking Forward: Will Microsoft Pull it Off?
As exciting as it is to see Microsoft embrace modern features, history teaches us to manage our expectations. Features frequently debut in beta builds, only to be delayed or shelved indefinitely. At this point, there’s no clear release date for the Restore Tabs on Reboot feature. It could surface as a minor patch in early 2025 or be bundled into a more significant update, such as Windows 11’s annual feature release.Here’s what to watch for:
- Smooth Rollout: Will the feature actually restore with 100% accuracy? How will it handle crashes, forced shutdowns, or updates?
- Performance Impact: Adding session-saving mechanisms could introduce system overhead. Ideally, it shouldn’t bog down File Explorer or system startup times.
- User Feedback: If beta users encounter bugs or inconsistencies, Microsoft may need to go back to the drawing board, potentially delaying the public release.
How to Test It Yourself
Are you part of the Windows Insider program? Here’s how to access the beta channel and get a sneak peek at this feature:- Join the Windows Insider Program: Head to the Settings app, navigate to Windows Update > Windows Insider Program, and enroll your device if you haven’t already.
- Select the Beta Channel: Opt into the Beta Channel for access to preview builds with features that are closer to final implementation.
- Update Your Windows Build: Once enrolled, check for updates and install the latest build.
- Explore File Explorer: Open File Explorer and navigate through the settings to see if the Restore Tabs on Reboot option is available.
Alternatives to File Explorer – Do You Really Need to Come Back?
The article from the Poc Network hinted at one user's journey of switching from File Explorer to XYplorer. If the new tab persistence feature doesn’t sound like a game-changer to you, consider these options:- XYplorer: Known for its powerful customization, scripting capabilities, and tab persistence, it’s a popular go-to for power users.
- Directory Opus: Offers unparalleled control over file management workflows, albeit with a steeper learning curve and price tag.
- Files App: A modern, open-source file manager alternative for Windows users looking for an aesthetic (yet functional) upgrade.
Conclusion: A Step in the Right Direction
While it’s far from revolutionizing the File Explorer experience, the ability to restore tabs and folders on reboot is a thoughtful addition that reflects Microsoft’s willingness to modernize its tools. For the majority of Windows users, this update will provide much-needed convenience and raise File Explorer closer to today’s standards.Is it enough to compete with third-party tools? That remains to be seen. But one thing is for sure—2024’s version of File Explorer might finally start feeling like a product designed with users in mind. And for long-time Windows aficionados, that’s reason enough to celebrate.
Are you excited about this update, or have you moved on to a different file management tool altogether? Share your thoughts on the forum. Let’s discuss!
Source: Poc Network Upcoming File Explorer update in Windows 11 restores tabs on reboot (finally)
