Microsoft is introducing a dark mode for older Windows 11 user interface elements, such as the Folder Options and the Run dialog, in the latest Insider build. This update is part of a broader effort to modernize the Windows 11 interface by providing a unified dark theme experience.
New Dark Mode Elements
The new dark mode features were discovered by PhantomOfEarth on the platform X and are accessible through ViveTool flags. Previously, Windows 11's dark mode was applied to more recent UI elements, leaving legacy dialogs like the file transfer dialog in light mode. The addition of dark themes for older UI components aims to address this inconsistency.
- Dark mode added to Folder Options and Run dialog.
- Available in Windows 11 Insider builds via ViveTool.
- Part of gradual UI update approach by Microsoft.
This update provides users a more cohesive visual experience, albeit requiring manual activation.
Testing and Rollout
Currently, the dark mode updates are hidden within the Insider channels, indicating ongoing testing. Microsoft plans to release these features to the broader Release channel after successful validation through its testing process, which includes the Release Preview stage.
Until then, users may still encounter older dialogs in light mode during specific file operations. For more control over when dark mode is applied, users might consider third-party tools like Light Switch.
