Microsoft's quest to implement a tabbed interface in Windows File Explorer spanned years of experimentation, only to fall short during its attempted integration into Windows 10. It wasn't until late in 2022 that Windows 11 finally introduced Explorer tabs. However, despite the extensive development efforts, the functionality of this feature remained rudimentary, lacking the expected user-friendliness.
While there are hints that Microsoft might extend the use of tabs to other Windows apps, it would be wise to reassess how users interact with tabs before proceeding. The addition of tabs has long been one of the most sought-after improvements for Windows File Explorer, allowing users to open multiple directories or files within a single window. Although Windows 11 brought a basic tabbed interface, it still falls short of contemporary web browser standards and user expectations.
What are the current issues?
The primary drawback of the tabbed interface in Windows 11 File Explorer is its treatment of each tab as a distinct entity. When a user opens a new directory, it spawns a new window instead of creating a new tab within the existing window. This limitation complicates the organization and management of multiple directories or files, often leading to cluttered desktops and taskbars.
Additionally, the mechanics of rearranging tabs in File Explorer can be clunky and unintuitive. Users must navigate the cursor to the far end of the tab to reorder them, which may not be immediately apparent and can frustrate those accustomed to the smoother tab management found in modern web browsers.
Moreover, while tab rearrangement is possible in File Explorer, it lacks support for merging tabs or splitting them into separate windows, a significant limitation. This means users cannot easily group related directories or files or separate them for distinct workflows.
What can be enhanced?
To enhance the tabbed interface in File Explorer, Microsoft should draw inspiration from modern web browsers. For instance, users should be able to drag and drop directories or files onto the tab bar to open them as new tabs, and merging tabs or splitting them into separate windows should be a straightforward process. Furthermore, the mechanics of tab rearrangement should be refined for better intuitiveness and user-friendliness.
In summary, while the introduction of tabs to Windows 11 File Explorer signifies progress, it still falls short of expectations and lags behind the functionality found in modern web browsers. By closely studying how users utilize tabs and implementing improvements to the tabbed interface, Microsoft has the potential to create a more user-friendly and functional File Explorer for Windows users.