Preview Media Files in Vista - Quick View Feature
Previewing Media Files in Windows Vista
Previously, utilizing Windows Vista necessitated launching a dedicated application to view videos, listen to songs, or examine pictures. However, Vista incorporates a convenient feature allowing for previews directly within Explorer.
This functionality proves particularly useful when you wish to quickly assess a video or song without the need to repeatedly initiate Windows Media Player. To demonstrate, navigate to your Video folder.
Activating the Preview Pane
Click Organize, then select Layout, and finally choose Preview Pane. This action reveals the Preview Pane on the left side of the window.
A compact player control is integrated within the preview, enabling you to sample the video. Full-screen viewing is also available directly from this preview.
Previewing Audio Files
The same preview capability extends to audio files. Access your music folder and apply the identical settings: Organize, then Layout, and select Preview Pane.
Simple player controls are provided for convenient audio file playback.
Previewing Image Files
The process is consistent for picture files as well. Follow the previously outlined steps to view a larger thumbnail of each image within the preview pane.
Note that each preview – whether for video or image – displays comprehensive file properties below the preview itself.
Further Information
This feature is beneficial for those unfamiliar with Windows Vista and its capabilities. Conversely, if you find the preview pane disruptive, information on how to Disable Preview Pane is available from The Geek!