New Delhi: Microsoft has reported that they are doing an experiment with the background preloading system of the File Explorer in Windows 11 to reduce the lag users encounter when launching applications. The change is being trialled in Windows 11 Insider Program Build 26220.7271 in both the Dev and Beta channels, with the broader rollout expected for early 2026. This move comes after widespread reports of sluggish performance, where opening File Explorer can take more than a second and often displays a ” working on it message before the contents appear.
According to some reports, the slowdown has frustrated users, especially since File Explorer on Windows 10 typically opened almost instantly, and the delays on Windows 11 have been observed across a range of hardware configurations. With the latest change, Windows will keep File Explorer pre-prepared in the background so that the window can open almost instantly when the user launches it. The capability will be switched on by default, but those who prefer not to use it can turn it off in Folder Options by deselecting Enable window preloading for faster launch times in the View section.
According to the company, users shouldn’t notice anything different apart from quicker load times, and early tests suggest the background preloading has only a small effect on memory usage. Microsoft in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7271 also released its Xbox Full Screen Experience for the Windows PCs, bringing a console-like interface to laptops, desktops and tablets when navigating with the controller. Originally debuted on ASUS ROG Ally and Ally X handhelds and later expanded to the MSI Claw, this UI transforms the game browsing and launching experience to feel more like an Xbox than a traditional PC.
