Let’s admit it, we’ve all been there – dealing with different types of file formats that just wouldn’t open on our operating system, compelling us to search the depths of the internet for third-party apps that could do the job. The struggle to find that perfect app that would open ZIP, RAR, or TAR files without bombarding us with countless ads or draining our system resources was real. But as they say, every dark cloud has a silver lining, and for us Windows users, that lining is the latest Insider build of Windows 11.
With this new update, Windows 11 takes a huge leap forward, embracing a wider range of file formats and reducing our dependency on third-party apps. From now on, your PC will be able to open and handle more file formats natively, making your digital experience smoother than ever. Read on as we unravel the specifics of this groundbreaking update.
Windows 11 Game-Changing Update
Microsoft’s Insider Build 23493 of Windows 11 comes packed with several updates. But one particular update stands out for making a revolutionary difference – the native support for an extensive range of archive formats, including 7-Zip and RAR. This noteworthy update is made possible due to the incorporation of the open-source project, libarchive. The new formats now supported are:
- .tar
- .tar.gz
- .tar.bz2
- .tar.zst
- .tar.xz
- .tgz
- .tbz2
- .tzst
- .txz
- .rar
- .7z
This milestone means less dependency on third-party software like 7-Zip or WinRAR, streamlining the user experience. However, it’s important to note that these apps still have their worth, as they support many more formats that Windows can’t yet recognize. Nevertheless, this update marks a significant step towards a more convenient and straightforward archive handling process.
When Can You Expect the Rollout?
At the moment, this feature is only available to Insiders in the Dev branch. This means a select group of Windows users who are part of the Windows Insider Program, a community of people who test out and provide feedback on new features before they’re released to the general public, have access to this update. But don’t worry, the rest of us won’t have to wait too long.
A broader rollout is expected in the coming months. So, whether you’re a software developer dealing with a myriad of file types daily, or a casual user who occasionally stumbles upon a RAR or 7Z file on the internet, you’ll soon be able to decompress its contents with ease, using Windows’ native capabilities.
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Concluding comments
The latest Insider build of Windows 11 redefines the way we handle file archives, adding a significant improvement to our day-to-day digital interactions. Gone are the days when you’d need to rummage around for a reliable third-party app just to open a RAR or 7-Zip file. This update not only simplifies the archive handling process but also enhances the overall user experience, paving the way for a more seamless digital journey.
As we eagerly wait for the broader rollout of this feature, let’s take a moment to appreciate the dynamic and user-centric nature of technology. It continuously evolves, striving to break down barriers and make our digital lives more comfortable and efficient. And in this ever-changing tech landscape, Windows 11 proves once again why it’s a preferred choice for many, continuing its tradition of delivering features that resonate with users’ needs.
In the grand scheme of things, this new update is not just about adding support for a handful of new file formats. It’s a testament to Microsoft’s commitment to refining and enhancing user experience, a promise that keeps us excited for what’s next on the Windows journey. So, let’s stay tuned for more game-changing updates from Windows 11, as it continues to shape our digital world to be more intuitive, efficient, and user-friendly.