Microsoft Gives File Explorer a Welcome Refresh in Windows 10

[tarekma7]

Fluent design icons now available in the Insider program

Microsoft has recently released a new Windows 10 preview build for the Dev channel, and one of the biggest changes is the addition of a new set of icons that are displayed in File Explorer.

If you’ve been keeping an eye on the progress of Windows 10’s modern overhaul, you probably know already that modern icons are a key part of this refresh.

So with this new preview build, File Explorer is getting a new pack of icons that aligns with the ones already introduced in Windows 10, all for a more consistent and modern approach.

Quick Access folders are gone

Microsoft explains this is just the beginning, with more icons to be included at a later time.

“We first began updating the icons in Windows 10 last year starting with the built-in apps. Since then, we have continued updating icons throughout Windows 10 including the icon for Windows Security, the Narrator icon, and most recently the icon for Notepad. Now we’re taking the next step by updating many of the system icons used throughout File Explorer,” the company announced.

“Several changes, such as the orientation of the folder icons and the default file type icons, have been made for greater consistency across Microsoft products that show files. Notably, the top-level user folders such as Desktop, Documents, Downloads, and Pictures have a new design that should make it a little easier to tell them apart at a glance. And yes, the Recycle Bin icon has also been updated!”

At this point, the new icons are still in their early days, and Microsoft warns that those who install this preview build would lose the folders pinned to Quick Access. This is an issue that’s supposed to be resolved at some point in the future, though for now, no ETA is available on the whole thing.


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