Microsoft is rolling out multiple File Explorer changes to Windows 11 users in the Insider program, including improvements to launch speed and performance.

While Microsoft didn't share how the speed and performance improvements are being implemented, it was testing a new feature in November that preloaded File Explorer in the background to improve launch times and performance.

However, that was an optional feature that allowed those who wanted to disable preloading to uncheck "Enable window preloading for faster launch times" in File Explorer's Folder Options, under the View tab.

These File Explorer improvements follow the May 2025 rollout of Startup Boost, a similar optional feature for Office apps that automatically launches a Windows scheduled task in the background during system logon to help Office apps load faster.

As the Windows Insider Program Team also revealed on Friday, it's also working to improve the reliability of stopping the explorer.exe process after closing File Explorer windows.

Additionally, it started rolling out fixes for bright white flashes when opening File Explorer in dark mode to more Windows Insiders using Windows 11.

​Microsoft first confirmed this known issue in December when it linked it to the KB5070311 optional non-security update and said it may be triggered when creating a new tab, toggling the Details pane, navigating to or from Home or Gallery (including launching to Home), and selecting 'More details' while copying files.

A week later, Microsoft said it had been fixed when navigating between pages, but months later, in early March 2026, it said that it was still working to fully address this known issue and that it had removed the white flashes for Insiders in the Beta Channel on File Explorer launches when set to open to "This PC."

Last but not least, the new Xbox mode is now available on Windows 11 PCs, providing users with a full‑screen gaming interface that minimizes background distractions.

"Xbox mode is designed for those moments when you want to lean back, pick up a controller, and focus on the game. Enter Xbox mode from the Xbox app, Game Bar settings, or by pressing Win + F11," Windows Insider Program Team said.

These changes are rolling out to Insiders in the Release Preview channel who are running Windows 11 24H2/25H2 and have installed Windows 11 Builds 26100.8313 and 26200.8313 (KB5083631).