The best-looking File Explorer alternative just got a curvy new update
The third-party Files app now has rounded corners and a bunch of new features.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
What you need to know
Files is a third-party file management app available on Windows. The app has been on our radar for years and earned praise for its attractive design and feature set that often beats Microsoft’s own File Explorer. Many of the features you see in File Explorer today, such as tabs, shipped first in Files. The third-party app just received an update to version 3.5 that adds more rounded corners and several new features.
The bump to version 3.5 is not massive, but it does bring some welcome changes to the app. The content area of Files is now separated from the status bar, toolbar, and preview pane. With that split comes the addition of some more rounded corners. Previously, only the top-left corner of the content area was rounded.
The change is subtle, but it makes it easier to distinguish between different portions of the app. The update also adds several actions and options, including the ability to right-click an item and Edit that document in Notepad. You can also hide the toolbar within the app starting with v3.5.
The app’s developer outlines all of the changes onGitHub, and I have also listed them below.
Files |$8.99 at Microsoft Store
This third-party file management app is gorgeous. It also packs in many features that are not available in Microsoft’s official File Explorer on Windows 11. The latest update makes it easier to distinguish between different parts of the apps, adds some curves, and brings in several new features and options.
Files v3.5: What’s changed
Get the Windows Central Newsletter
All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.
Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.