New feature in File Explorer simplifies management of shared files

Another update just rolled out to Windows 11 Insiders that brings new features like jump lists for apps pinned to the Start menu and the ability to share files from the Windows Search panel, reports Windows Latest.

But the most intriguing part of the update is an improvement to File Explorer that adds a new Shared section to the Home folder, right next to the Recent and Favorite sections that are already there.

This new Shared section of File Explorer integrates with your Microsoft account and showcases the files that have been shared with you across Microsoft’s other products, including OneDrive and Teams.

For enterprise and education accounts, the Shared section will also include files that have been shared within the organization. It will also work with Microsoft Entra ID, used by companies for managing access to internal resources for employees.

Though still buggy, File Explorer’s new Shared feature could end up being quite useful if you’re part of a fast-moving team or organization with lots of files flying around. Having all those shared files from across many apps in one central location should make it far easier to find the exact documents or images you need.

As of now, this feature is only available in the optional KB5043185 update that’s available to Windows Insiders on the Dev Channel. This update is expected to reach the general public in early October.

Further reading: Should you become a Windows Insider? What you need to know before signing up