The Verge·May 1, 2026

💻Microsoft Refreshes Run Menu for Windows Testers

Your Run menu just got a modern makeover in the Experimental Channel

TL;DR

The refreshed Run menu is rolling out to Windows testers with a sleek new design, dark mode support, and faster performance. The update removes rarely used features like the 'Browse' button.

Microsoft has rolled out an updated version of the Run menu for Windows testers in the Experimental Channel. This redesign includes a modern interface, dark mode support, and improved efficiency. The changes remove the underutilized 'Browse' button while adding a new '~\‘ command to navigate directly to the user directory. Insiders can enable this feature via Settings > System > Advanced options. The update aims to streamline workflows for power users by making common tasks quicker and more intuitive.

Microsoft Refreshes Run Menu for Windows Testers

Key Points

1

The refreshed Run menu is rolling out to Windows testers via the Experimental Channel as of October 2023.

2

New features include a sleek interface, dark mode support, and the addition of '~\‘ command for user directory navigation.

3

Microsoft removed the 'Browse' button from the Run menu due to very low usage in previous builds.

4

Windows Insiders can enable the new Run menu by navigating to Settings > System > Advanced options.

5

The redesigned interface is built using code from Command Palette, enhancing overall OS efficiency.

Why It Matters

If you're a Windows Insider testing out the latest features, the refreshed Run menu offers a more modern and efficient experience. The removal of rarely used buttons like 'Browse' streamlines workflows for power users. However, smaller teams or casual users might not notice significant changes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does this matter?

If you're a Windows Insider testing out the latest features, the refreshed Run menu offers a more modern and efficient experience. The removal of rarely used buttons like 'Browse' streamlines workflows for power users. However, smaller teams or casual users might not notice significant changes.

What happened?

The refreshed Run menu is rolling out to Windows testers with a sleek new design, dark mode support, and faster performance. The update removes rarely used features like the 'Browse' button.

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