Microsoft is rolling out updates to Windows 11 that aim to address long-standing user complaints, particularly concerning the redesigned right-click context menu and File Explorer performance. These changes are currently available in insider builds and are expected to eventually reach the general public.
File Explorer Enhancements
Beyond the context menu, Microsoft has focused on improving File Explorer's stability and usability. The company states that it has identified and resolved numerous issues that caused freezes, hangs, and delays. These optimizations are intended to provide a smoother experience when browsing, renaming files, navigating folders, or selecting multiple files, reducing instances of freezes and visual flashes.
Additionally, several smaller, everyday interactions within File Explorer are being refined. These include more immediate filename changes, enhanced support for address bar inputs, the ability to open the Home page folders with a middle-click in the address bar, and the display of file sizes using appropriate units. Microsoft has indicated that these are just the initial improvements in this area.
Context Menu Overhaul
The most significant change for many users involves the right-click context menu. The transition from the Windows 10 context menu to the Windows 11 version has been a point of contention, with users disliking the horizontal display of primary commands and the placement of options like 'Properties.'
Microsoft has acknowledged this feedback and will be introducing options to revert some of these changes. Users will be able to choose to display primary commands such as Cut, Copy, Paste, Rename, Delete, and Share as a list directly within the menu, rather than as a row of icons. The 'Properties' option will also be movable to the bottom of the menu, more closely resembling the Windows 10 layout.
The company also recognized the need to reduce the latency between right-clicking and the menu appearing. The updated menu aims for quicker load times and increased customizability. A new 'Customize menu' option will be present at the bottom of the context menu, serving as a shortcut to its settings page. This feature will allow users to tailor the menu to their specific preferences, habits, and established muscle memory from previous Windows versions.
These updates align with Microsoft's stated commitment to enhancing the core functionality and performance of Windows 11, focusing on making essential elements more efficient and user-friendly.