Thanks to the numerous leaked Windows 8 builds and Microsoft’s demo at D9, we already have a fair bit of idea regarding what to expect in Windows 8. We know that Windows 8 will feature a new Metro inspired full-screen interface, ribbon interface for Windows explorer, new touchscreen gestures, pattern logon, enhanced task manager, in-built PDF reader and webcam apps, and an app store. However, there is still a lot that Microsoft has managed to keep under wraps.

A few minutes back, Microsoft published a new video to demonstrate the enhanced new Explorer that will be shipped with Windows 8. We already knew that Microsoft will be using the Ribbon UI in the new Explorer. However, the real charm lies in the details.

Windows Explorer already includes plenty of nifty little features. However, most of these features are rarely used by users as they are hidden in obscure locations. Microsoft’s telemetry data suggests that the top 10 explorer commands form over 80% of the explorer usage. The new Ribbon interface will put these commonly used functionalities front and center. At the same time, the Microsoft is also attempting to reveal lesser known features through tabs in the Ribbon UI. Check out the video embedded below to see the new Explorer in action.

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At first glance the Windows 8 explorer seems to offer the perfect blend of simplicity and power. Advanced users will appreciate features like copy path, launch Command Prompt in Administrator mode, and context aware searching. However, the simple and logical organization of all of these features into tabs will ensure that novices aren’t scared away.