Microsoft is planning to launch a new AI Explorer in Windows 11, set to debut in the Windows 11 2024 Update (Windows 11 24H2) later this year. This innovative tool is designed to significantly enhance the user experience by integrating advanced AI capabilities directly into the operating system's file management system. The AI Explorer aims to redefine how users interact with their files, offering features such as natural language understanding, editing suggestions, and comprehensive search functionalities across the device.
Technical Requirements and Capabilities
To utilize the AI Explorer, users will need to meet specific hardware requirements, including a minimum of 16 GB of RAM, 225 GB of free storage space, a Snapdragon X Elite NPU (HWID QCOM0D0A) processor, and an ARM64 CPU. These requirements underscore the tool's advanced capabilities and the significant computational power needed to support its AI functionalities.
The AI Explorer is not just a simple upgrade to the existing File Explorer; it represents a major leap forward in integrating AI into the core user experience of Windows 11. By understanding natural language, the tool can process complex queries and commands, making file management more intuitive and efficient than ever before.
New glyphs related to AI Explorer features are present in build 26200 (perhaps a few earlier ones too)
The highlighted one seems to be related to a feature called "Screen Capture"
Little shreds of code that were missed by the "public compile cleanup crew" also exist pic.twitter.com/vTnTIsvxaS— Albacore ☁️ (@thebookisclosed) April 22, 2024
Innovations and Discoveries
Recent explorations of the latest Windows 11 Build 26200 by Albacore have revealed several exciting new features and changes that are likely related to the AI Explorer. Notably, a variety of new icons, including one that might serve as the AI Explorer's glyph, have been identified. These icons suggest a closer integration of AI features within the operating system, potentially extending beyond file management.
A particularly intriguing discovery is the mention of a “Screen understanding” capability, which hints at the AI Explorer's ability to interpret the content displayed on the screen and offer contextual assistance. This feature, which can be toggled on and off, promises to elevate the level of interaction between the user and the operating system, providing support and suggestions based on the current screen content.
