XnView Software

1.9.3: Problem with selecting in the Browser.

This is probably not exactly a “bug,” but rather a minor yet common issue (inconvenience) for users who utilize batch conversion and other batch file operations.

When I press CTRL+A in the browser in a folder to select all files in it, all subfolders are also automatically selected along with the files. And since I always work only with files in the browser (for example, batch conversion), I have to deselect the folders I don't need in this case every time. That is, I waste my time. And I'm sure I'm not the only one here.

I don't think anyone in the program often works with files and subfolders at the same time; 90% of users will only work with files. Operations with folders are not so important; they can be selected manually if necessary.

Therefore, I would like XnViewMP to select only files, but not folders, when selecting with CTRL+A. This is already implemented in other viewers, such as ACDSee.

As a compromise, a separate option could be added to the Settings in the Browser section, with the ability to choose what to select when pressing CTRL+A: only files, or files and folders.

it's not a problem, but suggestion

it could be done like this:

• add checkbox to alter Ctrl+A behavior, disabled by default (in Settings>File operations)
  eg 'Enable files/folders separate selection (Ctrl+A)'
  so it can be switched between
  
  • current behaviour
    • multiple press
      - select all files and folders
  • new behaviour
    (steps are looped)
    • double press
      1. select all files
      2. select all files and all folders
      
      OR
    • triple press
      1. select all files
      2. select all folders
      3. select all files and all folders
  
  
  ps. further customization may alter files selection by file type, eg all images, then all files, etc

user0 wrote: Sun Aug 24, 2025 3:27 pm it's not a problem, but suggestion

This is indeed a problem, as the current CTRL+A functionality creates delays in working with the program when used frequently. Although this is not a bug, pointing out an obvious problem (inconvenience) is, in my opinion, more appropriate for the “bugs” section than for the “suggestion” section.

As for your description of where and what to add in the settings, it is beyond praise, everything is very detailed and clear.

you have 'select all files'

xnview wrote: Wed Aug 27, 2025 2:10 pm you have 'select all files'

I didn't think there was such a command. The issue has been resolved by reassigning the hotkey ('select all images'). Thank you for the excellent program.