SharePoint metadata not available when uploading via File Explorer / third-party systems

https://feedbackportal.microsoft.com/feedback//idea/601bb0ab-b45b-f111-89e7-7c1e52cbf98c

Thank you! I've posted on the community forum. Please let me know if you have a workaround on this besides searching by filename, because multiple filename attached to different invoices and it'll be difficult to memorize or search by invoice number.

Good day @Melv, and I appreciate the clear explanation of your concern.  

This behavior is expected because File Explorer only handles files and folders for syncing, so SharePoint metadata such as columns, filtering, and grouping are only available in the web interface and files uploaded through external systems will not include metadata unless it is explicitly added during the upload process. 

I truly appreciate your patience and the effort you’ve put into exploring possible workarounds and highlighting real workflow challenges, and from everything I’ve checked, these features are supported within the SharePoint library in the browser, where metadata navigation, key filters and metadata-based queries are available. 

I can definitely see how these limitations in SharePoint can feel disruptive. It’s not just about aesthetics; these differences can genuinely affect how smoothly you work and navigate your day. 

I’m really sorry, I know this isn’t the outcome you were hoping for. As a forum moderator, I hope you understand that I don’t have the ability to modify or escalate product issues directly. However, I strongly recommend submitting your feedback through the SharePoint · Community. This is the most effective way to ensure your voice reaches the product team and can be considered for future improvements.  

Once you've submitted your feedback, feel free to share the link here in the comments. I’ll be happy to upvote it to help bring more visibility. If you prefer, I can also submit this great idea on your behalf. Just let me know, and I’ll post it for you and share the link once it’s published. I’m here to help ensure your feedback gets the attention it deserves. 

Additionally, as other users have raised similar concerns and may not be aware of where to share their feedback, I hope this response helps clarify the situation and suggests a potential next step. Highlighting this information can make it more visible to others in the community who may be facing the same issue, making it easier for them to find guidance and contribute their feedback as well. 

Thank you again for your time and for raising this important usability concern. 

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