OneDrive: New Shortcuts folder option when adding shortcuts

OneDrive will introduce a new option to save shortcuts in a dedicated Shortcuts folder instead of the root, reducing clutter and improving organization. This folder is auto-created, visually distinct, and optional. Rollout starts mid-July 2026, affecting all OneDrive web users with no required admin action.

[What and Why:]

We're improving how shortcuts are organized in OneDrive by giving users the option to save new shortcuts to a dedicated Shortcuts folder instead of the OneDrive root. This change helps reduce clutter and makes frequently used content easier to find.

This message is associated with Roadmap ID 565028.

[Rollout Schedule:]

• General Availability (Worldwide, GCC, GCC High, DoD): We will begin rolling out in mid-July 2026 and expect to complete by late July 2026.

[Impact on Your Organization:]

Who is affected: All OneDrive users who add shortcuts.

Platforms/Services: OneDrive (web).

What will happen:

• When users add a shortcut in OneDrive, they can now choose where to save it (the Shortcuts folder or My files).

Screenshot: OneDrive shortcuts dropdown:



• For file shortcuts only, an Other locations option is also available
• The Shortcuts folder is created automatically when first used. If a user already has a folder named Shortcuts, that folder is reused.
• The Shortcuts folder is visually distinct, with a unique color and building icon to make it easy to identify.
• A confirmation message shows where the shortcut was saved.
• Existing shortcuts are not moved.
• The feature is on by default and is optional for users.

[Action Required / Recommendations:]

No action is required.

• There are no new admin controls or policies for this feature.
• Consider updating internal documentation or help desk guidance for users who frequently use the Add shortcut to OneDrive experience.
• You may want to notify users about the new option to help them organize shortcuts more effectively.

[Compliance considerations:]

Compliance area	Explanation
Does the change alter how existing customer data is processed, stored, or accessed?	Shortcuts can now be saved to a user-selected folder location, but no new data types are introduced and existing permissions are respected.
Does the change allow a user to enable or disable the feature themselves?	Users can choose whether to save shortcuts to the Shortcuts folder or continue saving them to the OneDrive root.