14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft is expected to introduce some File Explorer changes in Windows 9, but nothing too exciting, so one developer decided to make his own modern interpretation of what could be the file manager offered to users in the next Windows OS version.
This concept created by DeviantArt user fediaFedia gives Windows Explorer, currently known as File Explorer, a modern touch that brings it in line with the new design introduced by Microsoft in Windows 8 and based on a flat look and square shapes.
The Windows 9 Explorer Concept is based on an entirely new look and includes tabbed browsing to easily manage files, just like you do right now in more powerful third-party file managers.
At the same time, it also includes what the developer calls instant quick view options and mouse gestures to make navigation and management easier and faster.
A new look that could work
As you can see in the screenshot, the concept changes not only the classic layout of Windows Explorer, but also comes with new elements such as tabs, and restyled buttons for a bit more eye-candy look.
The ribbon is now dark and this might not actually fit Microsoft’s design, but there’s no doubt that offering a dark theme for Windows Explorer could also be a way to convince users to stay with Windows Explorer and avoid installing a third-party app for file management.
Overall, the concept looks good and brings up some really interesting ideas, but there’s no doubt that Microsoft won’t go for such a dramatic design in Windows 9 and will actually stick to the classic look we all know since Windows 98.
Subtle changes coming in Windows 9
File Explorer will indeed come with some changes in the next version of the Windows operating system, including a new icon that’s now flat and thus gets in line with the design cues proposed by Microsoft through Windows 8.
At the same time, leaked screenshots showed that Microsoft might rename the root location from “This PC” to “Home,” most likely as it works to make the operating system available on more devices, other than the traditional desktop computer.
A new share button will also be integrated, but in the existing testing builds it only works with select Modern apps. This could, however, change before the stable version of Windows 9 comes out, but File Explorer is very unlikely to get a major makeover as some people would want.