Dark Mode snafu on Windows 11 may potentially be rectified by Microsoft
In a significant development, Microsoft is actively working to improve and complete the system-wide dark mode on Windows 11. The latest preview builds, part of the Windows 11 25H2 update, have shown promising signs of progress, especially in areas that have been overlooked for nearly a decade.
One of the most noticeable changes is the update to file operation dialogs, such as copy, delete, and file permission windows. These dialogs, which have been stuck in light mode for years, now sport a dark grey colorway in the latest builds [1][3][5]. The File Explorer itself also offers an early glimpse of dark interfaces, with these UI surfaces themed correctly when dark mode is enabled [2].
While these updates mark a significant step forward, there are still areas that require attention. Many fundamental interface elements, such as the Control Panel, Run prompt, and some dialogs, still lack proper dark mode support [1][4][5]. Areas like the Registry Editor, Group Policy windows, and the Run dialog are among those that need further updates.
Microsoft's renewed commitment to dark mode has been long overdue, with complaints dating back to the Windows 10 era in 2018 [6]. The author of this article has been vocal about the incomplete state of dark mode on Windows 11, describing it as "embarrassingly incomplete" [7].
The company's current plan is to release the new dark mode interfaces in File Explorer in the 25H2 release later this year [8]. However, achieving full consistency across all interface elements is an ongoing process, and additional updates will be needed beyond the 25H2 release [1][4][5].
Microsoft is encouraging feedback from users, asking for opinions on their efforts to improve dark mode on Windows 11 in 2025 [9]. The author of this article echoes this sentiment, suggesting that the company should be committed to bringing dark mode everywhere in the system by 2025 [10].
As we move towards the second half of 2025, it appears that the long-awaited completion of dark mode on Windows 11 is within reach. While there is still work to be done, the progress made so far is a positive step towards a more visually appealing and user-friendly operating system.
References: [1] https://www.neowin.net/news/windows-11-25h2-build-26100-5061-brings-new-dark-mode-support-to-file-explorer/ [2] https://www.neowin.net/news/windows-11-25h2-build-26200-5751-improves-dark-mode-support-in-file-explorer-and-more/ [3] https://www.neowin.net/news/windows-11-25h2-build-26100-5061-brings-new-dark-mode-support-to-file-explorer/ [4] https://www.neowin.net/news/windows-11-25h2-build-26100-5061-brings-new-dark-mode-support-to-file-explorer/ [5] https://www.neowin.net/news/windows-11-25h2-build-26200-5751-improves-dark-mode-support-in-file-explorer-and-more/ [6] https://www.neowin.net/news/windows-11-dark-mode-is-still-embarrassingly-incomplete-says-mary-jo-foley/ [7] https://www.neowin.net/news/windows-11-dark-mode-is-still-embarrassingly-incomplete-says-mary-jo-foley/ [8] https://www.neowin.net/news/windows-11-25h2-build-26100-5061-brings-new-dark-mode-support-to-file-explorer/ [9] https://www.neowin.net/news/mary-jo-foley-asks-for-your-opinions-on-microsoft-working-on-new-dark-mode-improvements-for-windows-11-in-2025/ [10] https://www.neowin.net/news/mary-jo-foley-asks-for-your-opinions-on-microsoft-working-on-new-dark-mode-improvements-for-windows-11-in-2025/
- The surface of File Explorer in Windows 11 is scheduled to get a darker makeover in the upcoming 25H2 update, following Microsoft's endeavor to enhance the system-wide dark mode.
- Microsoft's decision to improve dark mode on Windows 11 has been prompted by feedback from users, particularly those who were discontent with the incomplete state of dark mode on Windows 10, first seen in 2018.
- In addition to the File Explorer, Microsoft plans to extend the dark mode to Xbox software running on PCs, as part of their strategy for comprehensive dark mode implementations.
- With the surface of Windows 11's File Explorer and other interfaces gradually adopting a darker color palette, anticipation builds for the eventual application of dark mode on Microsoft's Surface Pro devices, touted for the latter part of 2025.
- As technology advances and Windows updates to Windows 11, the full potential of Microsoft's software ecosystem significantly benefits from consistent dark mode support, making user experience more visually appealing and efficient across different devices.
