GitHub now allows users to create new files directly within their repositories through a "New File" icon available in the folder's tree listing, providing a seamless file creation experience without leaving the website. This feature supports the creation of README, LICENSE, .gitignore files, and other documentation like contributing guidelines. If users attempt to create a file in a repository they lack access to, GitHub will fork the project and assist in sending a pull request to the original repository. Additionally, GitHub offers a selection of common templates for .gitignore files and allows users to pre-fill the filename field in the URL for convenience.