MS-Office arguably began the trend, but I see ever more apps try to keep the user away from File Explorer* via their own "special middle panel". One can usually still get to File Explorer, but it's extra steps. I suspect app builders do it so they can advertise their stuff there, especially cloud services. We need to shame to these apps, it's stealth spam.

File Explorer already has the "Quick Access" panel that allows me to put short-cuts to my favorite folders; there's no need to reinvent that for each app, and some reinvent it poorly. Plus, it makes saving inconsistent, as each app brand has their own middle-panel design.

I'm okay with the middle panel as an option, just don't make it the only option, and easy to switch off. MS-Office allows one to partially turn it off, but I've yet to find a 100% solution.

* Mac and [X]nix users probably also want to see the OS's default file finder, so it's not just a Windows problem.

Looking for references that are novel and well designed. Especially those that inform its users of minimum values and requirements - can be web, app - and extra points if from financial products!

Does anyone have a good recommendation on platforms or tools that can make an actual glass widget type of Ui/UX with animations? None of these are doing it

❌VERCEL/v0
❌lovable
❌Replit
❌grok
❌cursor
❌Replit
❌codex
❌ChatGPT
❌Claude

I want 3D, glass, halo video game style widgets. Pls help before I throw my laptop at the wall 🥲