OneDrive Gets a Major Overhaul: New Features, Better Search, and Colorful Folders

Microsoft has revealed exciting updates for its popular OneDrive cloud storage service, introducing new features and enhancements that will roll out over the coming months. From a revamped mobile app to AI-powered search capabilities and even colored folders in File Explorer, OneDrive is set to become more user-friendly, efficient, and visually appealing.

Improved Search Experience: Find Files Faster Than Ever

One of the standout updates is the new search functionality that’s getting a major boost in performance. Jason Moore, Microsoft’s vice president of product for OneDrive, highlighted the significance of the upgrade, saying:"Our improved search experience is a game-changer. With new filter controls and more detailed results, find the exact file or folder faster and easier—whether it’s stored in your OneDrive, a shared library, or a folder from a teammate."

Users will notice faster load times and enhanced search results, allowing them to quickly locate files, photos, and documents stored in their OneDrive account. This feature is rolling out now and will be available to all OneDrive commercial customers by the end of 2024.

Colored Folders in File Explorer: A Splash of Organization

Another exciting addition is the long-awaited colored folders in Windows File Explorer. This feature, previously available on the web version of OneDrive, now makes its way to Windows users. It allows users to color-code their folders, making it easier to organize and visually manage their files.

If you’ve already set colors for your folders on the web, these will automatically sync and appear in File Explorer starting today. Microsoft also mentioned plans to improve the document library experience in OneDrive by mid-2025, enhancing performance and reliability while making it easier to navigate through large data sets.

New OneDrive Mobile App: Photos in Focus

Microsoft is also introducing an updated mobile app for iOS and Android users. The redesigned app will put photos front and center, offering easy-to-navigate albums, a new favorites section, and an improved AI-powered photo search. The updated search allows users to find photos by using natural language, so searching for something like “a dog on a boat” will return relevant photos instantly.

Additionally, the mobile app will surface memories, trips, and birthdays on the homepage, adding a personal touch to the photo management experience. Users will also be able to import photos from other cloud services, such as Google Drive, Google Photos, and Dropbox, directly into OneDrive.

The new OneDrive app for Android begins rolling out today, with the iOS version set to arrive in November. The AI-powered photo search feature will be available to Microsoft 365 subscribers first, with a wider release expected by summer 2025.

Copilot in OneDrive: AI Assistance at Your Fingertips

In addition to these updates, Microsoft Copilot is making its way to OneDrive for all commercial customers starting today. Copilot will be integrated into OneDrive, offering users AI-driven assistance with document summaries, file comparisons, and more.

What’s more, Copilot Agents will be introduced soon, allowing users to have a custom-built AI assistant to manage their folders and perform various tasks on their behalf. These agents are set to revolutionize how users interact with their OneDrive data.

Looking Ahead: More Features on the Horizon

Microsoft isn’t stopping here. Future updates to OneDrive include an enhanced photos experience across PC, web, and macOS, as well as the integration of Microsoft Designer, enabling users to easily edit photos within OneDrive.

Moreover, personalized views are coming soon, which will automatically group files and photos based on moments, hobbies, or collections. One-click AI actions such as file comparison and summarization will also be integrated into File Explorer and macOS Finder, making OneDrive even smarter and more efficient.

Conclusion: OneDrive’s Evolution into a Smarter Cloud Service

These updates mark a significant step forward for Microsoft OneDrive, transforming it into a more intelligent, efficient, and visually appealing cloud storage solution. Whether you’re a professional using OneDrive for work or a casual user managing personal files and photos, the new features are sure to enhance your experience.

With its AI-powered search, customizable colored folders, and an improved mobile app, OneDrive is becoming an indispensable tool for users looking for a smart, reliable way to manage their files across devices.

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