Microsoft is continuing to extend dark mode support across Windows 11. In the latest preview build, newly redesigned file operation dialogs, such as those used when copying or deleting files, now appear in dark theme. These elements were previously limited to light mode, creating a visual inconsistency across the operating system.
The discovery was made by Windows observer Phantomofearth, who noted that while the backgrounds now reflect dark mode, the buttons remain light-themed, suggesting the update is not yet finalized.
No Official Announcement Yet
Microsoft has not formally announced the expansion of dark mode in Windows 11. However, the appearance of these updates in preview builds suggests that broader changes may be planned for the Windows 11 25H2 update, expected later this year.
Several older components, including the Control Panel, Run dialog, and file properties window, have yet to adopt dark mode. These legacy interfaces have remained visually inconsistent since dark mode was first introduced with Windows 10 ages ago.
Dark mode was first added to Windows 10 in 2016, but adoption across the platform was slow and partial. File Explorer, for example, did not receive dark theme support until several years after dark mode became available system-wide.
In contrast, Apple implemented a consistent dark mode across macOS with the release of macOS Mojave in 2018, setting a standard that Windows has yet to match.
More Design Changes Coming
Alongside these dark mode changes, Microsoft is also planning a Liquid Glass UI redesign, which will reportedly place more emphasis on translucency and visual layering. This update may signal further steps toward a unified and modern Windows interface.