Over the last thirty years, Windows has evolved in terms of design and features. Some of the changes have been for the better, some for the worse, and some simply for moving with the times. For those who have been on Microsoft’s journey since the start, some vintage features are missed but not forgotten. One is the original File Manager, which is no available in Windows 10.
The original Windows File Manager is now available as a Universal Windows Platform (UWP) app. Users can try it out now by downloading it from the Microsoft Store here.
This is the Windows File Manager that first appeared in Windows 3.0. Microsoft open-sourced the project last year and has now made it widely available.
File Manager can be installed on mobile, PC, HoloLens, and Surface Hub. While it is a cross-platform application, the official system requirements are pegged to at least Windows 10 build 16299. That’s interesting because that build is not available on mobile devices. So while the app is listed as cross-device, it is not available on mobile.
Naturally, there are no features on the original Windows File Manager that will transform your Windows 10 experience. This app is merely for those who want to explore the history of Windows or are feeling nostalgic.
Open Source
Microsoft says it will maintain the open-source GitHub page, which you can see here.
“The Windows File Manager lives again and runs as a native x86 and x64 desktop app on all currently supported version of Windows, including Windows 10. I welcome your thoughts, comments and suggestions. I will not be changing the original plus sources nor creating other branches for other purposes. You are welcome do that on your own,” the GitHub page reads.
