Windows 11 Insider Preview Build KB5053661 Brings "Recommended Files" and More to File Explorer
Microsoft’s latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build, KB5053661 (build 22635.5025), is adding a suite of exciting new features designed to streamline your workflow and enhance system usability. Among the most notable changes is the introduction of the "Recommended Files" section in File Explorer—a feature that aims to provide quicker access to your most relevant files based on your activity.Recommended Files in File Explorer: What’s New?
One of the standout enhancements in this build is the brand-new Recommended Files panel within File Explorer. Here’s how it works:- Personalized File Recommendations:
For Windows Insiders signed in with their personal Microsoft account, File Explorer now displays a carousel of thumbnails featuring frequently used files, recent downloads, and newly added content from your File Explorer Gallery. This makes it easier to locate files you need without tediously scouring through folders. - Extended Recommendations for Work/School Users:
Users logged in with work or school accounts will enjoy additional types of recommendations that are tailored to professional usage, providing even more fine-tuned access to important documents and data. - Availability Warning:
Currently, this new Recommended Files feature is rolling out to Windows Insiders outside the European Economic Area (EEA). For those in the EEA, the feature is on the horizon but not yet available.
New Snap Group Recommendations on the Start Menu
In another bid to improve productivity, Microsoft is introducing a smart update to the Start menu:- Dynamic App Pairing:
The updated Start menu now includes recommendations for snap groups—suggesting pairs of apps that are often used together. For example, as demonstrated by Microsoft, you might see a prompt to launch WhatsApp alongside File Explorer, instantly setting the stage for multitasking without fuss. - Boosted Productivity:
This feature is designed to help users quickly arrange their workspace and get more done without manually repositioning windows, thereby fostering a more efficient work environment.
Additional Improvements and Fixes
Beyond the new recommendation panels, the KB5053661 build packs several important fixes and updates:- File Explorer Performance:
A key bug that caused File Explorer to close very slowly when using the ‘X’ button has been resolved, offering a more responsive experience. - Enhanced Windows Search for EEA Users:
Improvements have been made to support web search providers within Windows Search for users in the EEA, enhancing content discoverability. - Updated Microsoft Store:
For those enrolled in the Canary channel, an updated version of the Microsoft Store has been rolled out, showcasing Microsoft's commitment to continuous improvement across its platform.
Known Issues and Feedback
As with many beta releases, there are still a few known issues. For instance:- App Icon Delays:
After installing an app, users might experience a delay in the appearance of app icons on the grid and category views within the All Apps page of the Start menu.
Final Thoughts
The Windows 11 Insider Preview Build KB5053661 marks a significant step forward in making Windows 11 more intuitive and user-focused. With features like the Recommended Files in File Explorer and new snap group suggestions in the Start menu, Microsoft appears committed to developing an OS that not only meets modern productivity demands but also feels inherently smart and responsive.For Windows Insiders eager to explore these new functionalities, the update will be rolling out in the coming weeks. In the meantime, keeping an eye on the Feedback Hub is highly recommended—your insights are crucial in driving further enhancements and ironing out the remaining glitches.
Stay tuned for more insider news and updates as Microsoft continues to evolve Windows 11 into an even more innovative, user-friendly ecosystem.
Source: WindowsReport.com
Source: WindowsReport.com With KB5053661, Microsoft introduces the new Recommeded Files on Windows 11
