This summary of the video was created by an AI. It might contain some inaccuracies.
00:00:00 – 00:09:45
The video presents an in-depth look at "Files," an open-source file manager designed to replace Windows Explorer with a modern alternative that is compatible with Windows 11. Key features highlighted include multi-tabbed windows, dual pane view for multitasking, customization with themes, and experimental features like file tagging and automatic folder size calculations. Despite some drawbacks such as occasional crashes and unimplemented features, the host praises "Files" for its advanced functionality and aesthetics compared to Windows 11’s native explorer. The video underscores the potential of open-source projects to enhance the Windows user experience and encourages viewers to explore and share other open-source applications. The segment concludes with an invitation for feedback and suggestions for future content.
00:00:00
In this part of the video, the presenter introduces an open-source file manager called “Files” designed to replace the default Windows Explorer with a modern, Windows 11-compatible look. This file manager offers additional features like multi-tabbed windows, which Microsoft has yet to incorporate into their own file explorer. The presenter has tested the new version of “Files” and finds it significantly improved and polished, though not perfect. Additionally, they mention today’s sponsor, Teleport, another open-source project for secure access management. The presenter then walks through the “Files” project’s GitHub page and website, highlighting its features such as familiar navigation with sidebar access to favorite folders, cloud drives, and the ability to browse files in various styles and layouts. Overall, the presenter believes “Files” is an excellent tool that enhances the Windows user experience.
00:03:00
In this segment of the video, the presenter explains the steps to enable dual pane view for multitasking in a file manager by adjusting settings and demonstrates how it allows working with two different folders simultaneously. They highlight the customization capability with themes, accessible through the project’s GitHub repository, and note the limitations of Windows in terms of system-wide customization. The video continues to discuss experimental features, particularly file tags—which allow adding colors and texts to files and folders—but points out that these tags are not retained on network or removable drives and lack search functionality. Another noteworthy experimental feature mentioned is the ability to view folder sizes directly in the main window without needing to access folder properties.
00:06:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses how a specific file manager tool simplifies folder size calculation, which Windows Explorer requires manual effort for. This tool automatically calculates and displays the sizes of folders and subfolders, aiding users in managing disk space. The speaker notes that though alternative software like TreeSize was previously used, this tool’s integrated function makes it unnecessary. However, the tool has some drawbacks such as occasional crashes, sidebar issues, and unimplemented features like efficient background copy tracking. Despite these issues, the speaker praises the tool, especially since it is a small open-source project, for being more advanced and visually appealing than Windows 11’s native file explorer. The conversation shifts to broader issues in Windows 11’s design inconsistencies, while acknowledging Microsoft’s positive direction towards more open-source initiatives.
00:09:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses their enthusiasm for Windows embracing developers who create great open-source applications, highlighting the files application as a promising example. They encourage viewers to try out the application and invite them to share any other cool open-source projects, whether for Windows, Linux, or web, in the comments or via direct messages on Twitter or Discord. The speaker expresses interest in possibly covering these projects in future content. The segment concludes with a thank you to the viewers and a farewell.