← Back to articles

The New Look of Windows 11: Redesigned Run Dialog Box

January 2, 2026

The classic Windows 11 Run dialog box is one of the oldest user interface elements still in use today. While it functions well, its design feels outdated, reminiscent of earlier versions of Windows. Excitingly, Microsoft is testing a fresh version that promises a more modern aesthetic.

What’s Changing?

Windows 11 users enrolled in the Beta or Dev Insider programs can test a new version of the Run dialog box, available with Insider builds 26220.7523 or later (as of December 23, 2025). To access it, you need to enable the feature manually.

The redesigned Run dialog is longer and, during testing, overlays part of the taskbar. It is invoked the same way as the classic: by pressing Windows key + R.

New Run dialog box aligned left The new Run dialog box aligned to the left.

Note: The new dialog may cover the Start button and icons if your Start menu is aligned on the left side of the taskbar.

New Run dialog covering taskbar icons The new dialog covering part of the taskbar.

In contrast, the classic Run dialog always appears above the taskbar, not obscuring the icons.

Classic Run dialog box not covering taskbar The classic Run dialog box remains above the taskbar.

How to Enable the New Run Dialog Box

Enabling the new interface requires a few steps:

  1. Download ViveTool: This utility enables hidden Windows features. Download and unzip it to a directory, e.g., C:\vive.

  2. Run Command Prompt as Administrator:

    • Search for “cmd” in the Windows search bar.
    • Right-click on the Command Prompt result.
    • Select Run as administrator.

Command Prompt as administrator Opening Command Prompt with administrative privileges.

  1. Navigate to the ViveTool directory:

    cd c:\vive

  2. Enable the feature:

    vivetool /enable /id:57156807,57259990,58527096,58381341

  3. Reboot your PC.

  4. Activate the new Run dialog:

    • Go to Settings > System > Advanced.
    • Toggle Run dialog to On.

Enable Run dialog in Settings Enabling the new Run dialog in Settings.

After restarting your PC, press Windows key + R to see the updated dialog box. To revert to the classic version, simply toggle Run dialog to off in Settings.

Note: This feature is still in testing. Keep your Insider build updated to enjoy the latest changes and improvements!