Discover Windows 11 File Explorer’s New Recommended Feed Feature with Microsoft Account Integration

Unveiling the New “Recommended”Section in Windows 11 File Explorer

Microsoft has rolled out an exciting update that features a new “Recommended”section in File Explorer, bridging deeper integration with Microsoft’s account functionalities. This addition aims to enhance user-centric capabilities right within Windows 11.

Overview of the Update

On January 17, Microsoft unveiled Windows 11 Build 22635.4800 in the Beta Channel. This latest build facilitates the download of KB5050085 through the Windows Update menu in the settings. As is common with these updates, users can expect not just new features but also various improvements and fixes.

Introducing the Recommended Section

The new feature allows users to enable the ‘Recommended’ section on the Home tab of File Explorer. This section presents a curated list of the most pertinent files utilizing insights derived from users’ accounts. Below is a screenshot showcasing the innovative design:

Historically, this feature was limited exclusively to users signed into Windows via Azure Active Directory (AAD).The latest change permits it to include both cloud and local files and is now accessible to all Microsoft account holders.

Setting Up the Recommended Section

To activate the Recommended section, follow these steps:

Navigate to the **Folder Options** menu.
Under **Privacy settings**, ensure to check the boxes for “Show recommended section” and “Include account-based insights, recent, favorites, and recommended files.”
Your File Explorer will now feature the most relevant files tailored to your account’s insights.

As visible in the screenshot above, activating this feature simplifies your navigation and file accessibility.

Managing Your Recommended Files

If you find certain files appearing in the Recommended section that you prefer not to see, it’s simple to manage your selections:

Right-click on any unwanted file to remove it from the list.
Alternatively, click on the three dots located in the bottom right corner of each file card to open the context menu.

The Algorithm Behind Recommendations

While the recommendations are determined by an algorithm based on your account insights, its effectiveness will undoubtedly improve over time as the system learns from more user interactions. Initially, the files shown in the recent section and the new recommended section may overlap.

Opting Out of the Recommended Section

If you prefer not to use this feature, you can easily disable it:

Uncheck the options for “Show recommended section” and “Include account-based insights, recent, favorites, and recommended files.”
Your File Explorer will revert back to its default ‘Quick Access’ layout, offering a more traditional experience.

This flexibility ensures that users can tailor their experience based on personal preferences.

Additional Features and Final Thoughts

The new Recommended section isn’t the only update coming to File Explorer in Windows 11; Microsoft is also enhancing auto tab restoration capabilities for a smoother browsing experience. What are your thoughts on this new feature? Share your feedback or any questions in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I enable the Recommended section in File Explorer?

To enable the Recommended section, navigate to Folder Options, then Privacy settings, and select “Show recommended section” and “Include account-based insights, recent, favorites, and recommended files.”

2. Can I customize the files shown in the Recommended section?

Yes, you can customize the files displayed. Right-click on any file in the Recommended section to remove it or click the three dots for additional options.

3. What should I do if I don’t want to see the Recommended section?

If you prefer not to use the Recommended section, simply uncheck the options in the Folder Options under Privacy settings to revert to the ‘Quick Access’ layout.

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