Windows 11 Run Dialog Update: New Look and Enhanced Functionality

A Radical Transformation in the "Run" Dialog Design

The "Run" dialog in Windows 11 has received a significant visual and functional update. This essential interface component, whose design remained unchanged for over three decades since its introduction with Windows 95, now aligns with the modern "Fluent Design" of Windows 11.

This new update was unveiled in a previous beta version of Windows 11, specifically in build 26534, where it was hidden and later activated using a Windows configuration utility. The updated Run dialog features a more modern and organized look, in addition to being larger than the previous version.

Additional Features and Functionality

In addition to visual improvements, the new "Run" dialog gains valuable additional functionalities. These features include displaying a list of recently used commands above the command line, making it easier for users to re-execute previous instructions with a single click. The updated dialog will also show visual icons for the applications you wish to run, enhancing the interface's aesthetics and adding a functional dimension.

Feature Activation and Expectations

It should be noted that this change is not automatically enabled in current beta versions. However, expectations are that Microsoft intends to make it an option that users can manually enable from Windows settings, specifically within the "Advanced Features" section. It will be included alongside other options such as enabling "End Task" when right-clicking on the taskbar.

Performance and Artificial Intelligence Concerns

While these enhancements are welcome, there are some initial concerns regarding their potential impact on system performance. Some wonder whether the new visual additions, such as the command history and application icon display, might lead to a slowdown in the Run dialog's responsiveness. However, no noticeable slowdown has been reported so far by users who have discovered this feature.

While AI features like Copilot are expanding to multiple parts of Windows 11, Copilot is not currently expected to be directly integrated into the Run dialog.

How to Use the "Run" Dialog and Basic Commands

Users can access the traditional "Run" dialog in Windows by pressing the Windows key + R. This dialog allows entering many useful commands such as winver to check the Windows version, msinfo32 to view system information, or control to open the classic Control Panel, and finally regedit to open the Registry Editor. It is essential to exercise extreme caution when using the Registry Editor, especially for tech novices, as any error can lead to serious problems affecting system stability.