Microsoft is optimizing its WinUI 3 framework to improve performance across Windows 11 applications. Early testing of File Explorer shows significant reductions in resource usage and launch times. The company describes these changes as a leap forward for the operating system's native interface.
File Explorer benchmarks show significant reductions in resource usage and launch times
Benchmarks indicate that File Explorer now uses 41% fewer memory allocations. The application also performs 63% fewer transient allocations during operation. Function calls within the file browser have decreased by 45%. WinUI code execution time during app launch has dropped by 25%.
Microsoft WinUI Team officials state that the transition to WinUI 3 offers a clear win for performance compared to the older WinUI 2 framework. These optimizations are part of a broader strategy to make Windows 11 apps 100% native. The changes are moving from the development branch to the main WinUI 3 branch.
Developers can opt in to these optimizations selectively to avoid potential breaking changes. Improvements are also planned for WinAppSDK 2.x releases where feasible. The framework serves as the native UI foundation for Windows desktop applications, including the Xbox Gaming Services and Store.
Microsoft has not confirmed a specific launch window for these performance updates. The company shared early results from File Explorer testing through its GitHub repository and WindowsCentral.
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