File system shell

摘要

A file system shell is provides virtual folders (651-655) which expose regular files and folders to users in different views based on their metadata instead of the actual physical underlying file system structure. Users are able to work with the virtual folders (651-655) through direct manipulation. Filters (620-626) are provided for narrowing down sets of items. Quick links (610-613) generate useful views of the sets of items. Libraries (600) consist of large groups of usable types of items that can be associated together, along with functions and tools related to the items. A virtual address bar (1402) comprises a plurality of segments, each segment corresponding to a filter for selecting content. A shell browser (2200) is provided with which users can readily identify an item based on the metadata associated with that item. An object previewer (2202) in a shell browser (2200) displays a plurality of items representing multiple item types.