If you’ve ever downloaded an archive file, chances are you’ve dealt with RAR files. This type of file, like ZIP files, allows you to reduce the size of a file so that it can be shared more easily.
And if the ZIP file could be opened automatically in Windows, the RAR file required the download of third-party software, usually WinRAR. And to be able to use the RAR format through this software, you had to subscribe to a lifetime license, which cost around 30 euros, since Microsoft never wanted to integrate the RAR format into its operating system.
Multiple usable file formats
But this time has already passed since Microsoft has finally decided to include RAR format handling in its operating system. From now on, any RAR file can be opened directly from Windows File Explorer. The company also specifies on its site that other archive formats, such as tar, 7-zip, or gz, can also be used directly from Windows.
This new feature rolls out with the May 2023 Update, for Windows 10 and Windows 11 only. This addition adds to the rest of the new features, essentially AI-powered, and should bring relief to many owners of computers running Windows.
Source: BFM TV
