You can now use this gorgeous file explorer on Windows on ARM devices
An attractive third-party file explorer now supports the Surface Pro X and other ARM devices natively.
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What you need to know
Files, a third-party file explorer forWindows 11and Windows 10, recently received an update to version 2.1. The update to version 2.1 isn’t quite as large as the jump toversion 2.0that launched alongside Windows 11, but it does include some significant changes and improvements. The app has a redesigned settings dialog and properties window that better align with Microsoft’s latest OS. Files also now natively supports ARM64 devices, such as theSurface Pro X.
Here’s everything that’s new withFiles in version 2.1:
An experimental feature in Files allows you to set the app as your default file manager. The option is still being worked on but is “stable enough for regular use” according to the app’s developer. If you’re already using Files as your default file manager, you should switch the option off and then back on to improve the feature’s stability.
This weekend I helped port over the incredible@FilesForWindowsapp to ARM64 without any x86/x64 component left! App runs so much faster. Pull request is done and is waiting for merge. Also got a nice .NET 6 upgrade for the broker. All tested on a 950 XLpic.twitter.com/xEO7xPMAcKThis weekend I helped port over the incredible@FilesForWindowsapp to ARM64 without any x86/x64 component left! App runs so much faster. Pull request is done and is waiting for merge. Also got a nice .NET 6 upgrade for the broker. All tested on a 950 XLpic.twitter.com/xEO7xPMAcK— Gustave Monce (@gus33000)November 14, 2021November 14, 2021
While Files is built for Windows PCs, developer Gustave Monce managed to get it to run on a Lumia 950.
The update is already live in the Microsoft Store. You can also download files through GitHub.
Modern file explorer
Files is a third-party file explorer that’s built to work with touch or a mouse and keyboard. Its recent update adds native support for ARM64 devices and redesigns several of its elements.
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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_.
