Microsoft tests modern Windows Run, says it's faster than legacy dialog

Microsoft has introduced a modern Run dialog in Windows 11 preview build 26300.8346 that supports dark mode, Fluent Design, and faster performance. The new dialog removes the Browse button, which was used less than 0.0038% of the time, and adds support for the ~\ shortcut to quickly access the home directory. It also shows icons in the list to aid identification. The median time‑to‑show is 94 ms compared to the legacy 103 ms, making the modern Run faster despite being a modern UI. The feature is optional and must be enabled in Settings > Advanced Settings; it does not replace the legacy Run automatically. Microsoft also announced improvements to the Windows Share UI, allowing apps to be installed directly from the Share dialog, and added more zoom levels to the Magnifier.

The preview build demonstrates that Microsoft can modernize legacy features while maintaining performance. The removal of the Browse button was based on usage data from 35 million users, and the ~\ shortcut was added to improve quick access. The new Run dialog also includes icon support, which helps users identify entries without cluttering the UI.

Organizations can test the new dialog by downloading the experimental channel build and enabling the feature in Advanced Settings. The changes are not expected to affect WordPress or WooCommerce directly but may improve overall user experience for developers and power users.