Windows 11 Explorer Gains Speed Boost Through Preloading, Receives Context Menu Overhaul
Microsoft is addressing performance concerns with Windows 11’s File Explorer by implementing a preloading feature, aiming to accelerate its launch time. The change, currently rolling out to Windows 11 Insider Preview build 26220.7271, proactively loads Explorer into memory, potentially sacrificing some system resources for quicker access. Users can disable preloading via Folder Options | Display if desired, a trade-off particularly relevant for older or less powerful machines.
Alongside the performance tweak, Explorer is receiving a redesigned context menu. Microsoft is reorganizing commands, moving less frequently used options – such as compress, rotate images, set as wallpaper, and copy path – into a new “Manage file” submenu. Cloud storage commands are now grouped under dedicated storage submenus, and the “Send to phone” option has been relocated. The “Open file location” command is now found under “Open” and “Open in programme.” Microsoft emphasizes these changes are being introduced gradually and are subject to modification based on user feedback.This latest Insider build also includes testing of a console mode and continued integration with mobile activities.
