Microsoft launches Files for Windows Phone 8.1, a file management app with search, sharing, and SD card support

Following an announcement on Reddit at the start of the month, Microsoft today released the much-anticipated Files app for Windows Phone 8.1, finally bringing a file management system to the mobile OS. You can download it now directly from the Windows Phone Store.

The free app includes the following functionality:

• Access files stored on your phone and SD card.
• Browse, search and launch files.
• Easily share one file or multiple files.
• Create folders to organize your files.
• Copy, move, rename and delete files.

Microsoft says the official file manager app “makes it easy and intuitive to manage your files on your device running Windows Phone 8.1.” PR-speak aside, it’s important to note that this app only works on the latest Windows Phone version.

We have contacted Microsoft regarding whether it has plans to make the app work on Windows Phone 8 or even earlier (unlikely). We will update this article if we hear back.

Update: A Microsoft spokesperson told TNW the company has “nothing more to share at this time,” unfortunately.

See also – Microsoft unveils Windows Phone 8.1 with personal assistant Cortana, Action Center, customizable lockscreens and Microsoft starts letting Windows Phone developers respond to app reviews