Enable the New Run Dialog Design in Windows 11

Activating the New Run Dialog on Windows 11

Microsoft is rolling out an updated design for the Run dialog in Windows 11, a feature that has remained relatively unchanged for over 30 years. While the modern version is currently in development for users in the Dev and Beta Channels, you can activate this redesigned feature manually using ViveTool. This guide provides clear steps for enabling the new Run dialog.

The Run dialog, frequently accessed via the Windows key + R shortcut, serves as a vital tool for technical users who rely on it for launching applications and executing commands. Although its functionality remains constant, the upcoming design refresh aims to align the interface with the contemporary aesthetic of Windows 11.

How to Enable the New Run Dialog in Windows 11

Follow the steps below to manually enable the new Run dialog design in the latest preview of Windows 11:

Download the ViveTool package from GitHub.
Extract the ViveTool-vx.x.x.zip file you downloaded.
Open the extracted folder in File Explorer.
Click on the Extract all button to unpack the contents.
After extraction, copy the folder path where ViveTool is located.
Open the Start menu.
Search for Command Prompt, right-click the result, and select Run as administrator.
In Command Prompt, navigate to the ViveTool folder by entering:

cd c:\folder\path\ViveTool-v0.x.x

Be sure to replace the path with the actual path of your folder.
Then, enter this command to enable the new Run dialog:

vivetool /enable /id:58381341, 58527096, 57156807, 57259990
Restart your computer once the command has been executed.
Open Settings again.
Select System.
Navigate to the Advanced section.
Toggle the switch for the Run dialog to enable the new design.

Upon completing these steps, the next time you utilize the Windows key + R shortcut, you will see the modern Run dialog interface.

Stay updated with the latest tips and guides by subscribing to my newsletter.

Windows 11 new Run dialog interface./ Image: Mauro Huculak

Frequently Asked Questions About the New Run Dialog

Below are some common inquiries related to the new Run dialog in Windows 11.

What is the new Run dialog in Windows 11?

The new Run dialog is a refreshed design of the classic Run box, consistently used within the Windows operating system for over three decades. It aims to synchronize its visual presentation with the updated aesthetics of Windows 11 while retaining its core functionalities.

Is the new Run dialog officially released?

No, the modern Run dialog is still under development. It resides in preview versions of Windows 11 available through Dev and Beta Channels and is not available by default, meaning it may undergo changes prior to a full public release.

What role does ViveTool play in this process?

Microsoft typically provides new features in preview builds in a disabled state. ViveTool allows users to enable these features manually for testing purposes before they are officially activated by Microsoft.

Is using ViveTool safe?

Though ViveTool is popular among Windows enthusiasts, it is not an official Microsoft tool. While it is generally safe when used correctly, enabling hidden features may result in system instability or unexpected issues. Use it cautiously, preferably on non-production systems.

What do the ViveTool feature codes refer to for the new Run dialog?

The feature codes 58381341, 58527096, 57156807, 57259990 correspond to different aspects of the new Run dialog experience. All codes are necessary to activate the redesigned interface and associated features.

Can I revert to the classic Run dialog?

Yes, you can disable the new design using ViveTool by executing the corresponding /disable command with the same feature codes. A restart will return your system to the classic Run dialog style.

Does the new Run dialog change its functionality?

No, the functionality of the Run dialog remains unchanged. Users can still launch applications and execute commands using the Windows key + R shortcut. The update primarily centers on enhancing the visual interface, not altering capabilities.

Will this feature reach the stable version of Windows 11?

Microsoft has yet to announce a release date for this feature. As with many features in preview builds, timelines for refinement and potential removal before reaching the stable version remain uncertain.

Source & Images