The Files app, a prominent third-party file manager for Windows 10 and 11, has recently unveiled its latest preview update, version 3.9.12, introducing a suite of enhancements aimed at refining user experience and functionality. Among the most notable additions is the Omnibar, a versatile tool designed to streamline navigation and search capabilities within the application.
Introducing the Omnibar
The Omnibar serves as a unified interface, merging the traditional breadcrumb navigation and search functionalities into a single, cohesive element. This design mirrors the address bars found in modern web browsers, offering users a familiar and intuitive experience. By default, the Omnibar displays the breadcrumb path, allowing for quick access to parent directories and their subfolders. Users can click on any segment of the path to navigate directly to that folder, enhancing efficiency in file management.
In addition to its navigational prowess, the Omnibar introduces a new Home button equipped with a dedicated flyout. This feature provides swift access to frequently used items such as quick access folders, drives, and other essential elements, thereby reducing the time spent searching for commonly accessed directories.
Enhanced Search and Filtering
With the integration of the Omnibar, the Files app has streamlined its search functionality. The dedicated search bar has been replaced, allowing users to initiate searches directly from the Omnibar by pressing
Ctrl + F or clicking the search icon within the bar. This consolidation not only declutters the interface but also aligns with the app's goal of providing a seamless user experience.Furthermore, the update introduces a dedicated filter UI, moving away from the previous method of filtering items through the search box. This new approach offers a more intuitive and faster means of narrowing down file selections, catering to users who manage extensive directories.
Additional Features and Improvements
Beyond the Omnibar and enhanced search capabilities, version 3.9.12 brings several other noteworthy features:
- OX Drive Integration: The app now supports OX Drive, expanding its compatibility with various cloud storage services and providing users with more options for managing their cloud-based files.
- Partial Right-to-Left (RTL) Support: Acknowledging the diverse user base, the update introduces partial RTL support, improving accessibility for users who utilize right-to-left languages.
User Experience and Accessibility Enhancements
The Files app has consistently prioritized user experience, and this update is no exception. The introduction of the Omnibar not only simplifies navigation but also reduces the learning curve for new users by adopting a design familiar to those accustomed to modern web browsers.
The dedicated filter UI addresses previous concerns regarding the intuitiveness of the filtering process. By separating filtering from the search function, users can now more efficiently manage and locate files, particularly in directories with a large number of items.
Moreover, the inclusion of partial RTL support is a significant step towards making the app more accessible to users worldwide. While it's currently partial, it lays the groundwork for full RTL support in future updates, demonstrating the developers' commitment to continuous improvement.
Performance and Stability
In addition to feature enhancements, the update focuses on performance optimizations and stability improvements. The integration of the Omnibar and the new filter UI are designed to operate seamlessly, ensuring that the app remains responsive even when handling large volumes of files.
The OX Drive integration has been implemented with efficiency in mind, allowing users to access and manage their cloud files without experiencing significant latency. This ensures that the app remains a reliable tool for both local and cloud-based file management.
Conclusion
The release of Files Preview 3.9.12 marks a significant milestone in the app's development, introducing features that enhance usability, accessibility, and performance. The Omnibar stands out as a transformative addition, streamlining navigation and search functionalities into a unified interface. Coupled with the new filter UI, OX Drive integration, and partial RTL support, this update solidifies the Files app's position as a leading alternative to the default Windows File Explorer.
Users interested in exploring these new features can download Files Preview 3.9.12 from the official Files community website. For those who wish to support the ongoing development of the app, purchasing the preview version from the Microsoft Store is an option. As the Files app continues to evolve, it remains a testament to the power of community-driven development and the pursuit of creating a superior file management experience for Windows users.
Source: Neowin One of the best file managers for Windows 11 gets brand-new Omnibar and more
