Windows 11 Build 23451 Offers A Bunch Of Improvements For File Explorer

Earlier this year, a preview edition of Windows 11 added a number of enhancements to File Explorer. Users could drag tabs out to make new Explorer windows and move them between existing ones. But, the implementation was awkward, and only the most recent Windows 11 Dev build improved the usability of managing tabs in File Explorer.

Improvements to File Explorer are not included in the build 23451 official release notes from Microsoft. They are one of those cool unnoticed features that users come across after investigating updates as soon as they are made available. The new WinAppSDK-based File Explorer offers a lot faster tab-managing experience, as reported by @PhantomOfEarth on Twitter. 

Build 23451 reintroduces better File Explorer tab dragging, including the ability to drag tabs between windows and drag a tab out to open it in its own window!

Now with a less weird implementation and one that works with the WASDK File Explorer, still hidden though. pic.twitter.com/OHBGRuFBNm

— PhantomOcean3 💙💛 (@PhantomOfEarth) May 4, 2023

Here’s how to use the ViveTool app to turn it on.

• Download ViveTool from GitHub, then unpack the files.
• Select Terminal (Admin) by pressing Win + X.
• Use the Ctrl + Shift + 2 key to change Windows Terminal to the Command Prompt profile or click the arrow-down button at the top of the window.
• Use the CD command to find the folder containing the ViveTool files. For instance, if you installed ViveTool in C:Vive, type CD C:Vive.
• Press Enter after typing vivetool /enable /id:39661369. Changes can be undone by substituting /disable for /enable in the command.
• In the end, restart your computer.