Microsoft continues its ambitious journey to modernize Windows, focusing on the transition of legacy features to its flagship native UI framework, WinUI. This ongoing effort includes a comprehensive redesign of various elements, such as the Properties Sheet, AutoPlay dialog, and the Windows Run feature. Each of these updates embraces a modern aesthetic, complete with dark mode support, yet the question remains: how does this impact performance?
In recent months, Microsoft has made significant strides in enhancing the stability of WinUI, particularly evident in the revamped Run dialog. Users can opt for this new design by navigating to Settings > System > Advanced. The updated Run dialog not only retains the familiar user experience but also introduces modern icons and elements, all while boasting improved speed compared to its predecessor.
Microsoft says performance was one of its priorities when rebuilding Run
The new Run dialog, crafted with a modern C#/WinUI 3 implementation, showcases a remarkable performance boost. According to Microsoft, the median time-to-show for the new dialog is 94 milliseconds, a notable improvement over the legacy version’s 103 milliseconds. This translates to an approximate 8.7% increase in speed, a figure that, while seemingly minor, reflects a significant achievement in the realm of user interface design.
However, it’s important to recognize that simply adopting WinUI does not guarantee enhanced performance across all legacy dialogs or applications. In fact, Microsoft has openly acknowledged that WinUI still requires substantial performance improvements in various areas.
One of the key strategies employed in the development of the new Run dialog is the use of .NET AOT (Ahead-of-Time compilation). By compiling the application ahead of time, Microsoft has managed to deliver the speed of native code while maintaining the flexibility of C# and WinUI 3. Collaboration with teams across the Windows platform has further ensured that these UI elements load swiftly, resulting in a performance that exceeds mere expectations.
Microsoft can make a modern Windows 11 without sacrificing performance
There has long been a perception that replacing Win32 with WinUI/XAML interfaces could lead to slower performance, particularly on lower-end machines. This concern is not unfounded, as evidenced by the noticeable lag in the new Task Manager compared to its predecessor, and the sluggishness of File Explorer prior to recent performance enhancements.
Run is an interesting test for Microsoft’s modern Windows UI
Microsoft has historically been cautious about modernizing older legacy dialogs due to performance concerns associated with WinUI. The Run dialog, known for its instantaneous response, posed a unique challenge. Microsoft recognized that to successfully modernize Run while aligning with the aesthetics of Windows 11, it was crucial to maintain its performance level.
While the difference between 103 milliseconds and 94 milliseconds may not be perceptible to the average user, the implications of this achievement are profound. Microsoft has successfully modernized a lightweight Windows feature that has been in use for over three decades, utilizing its contemporary C#/WinUI 3 stack without compromising performance. In fact, the measurements suggest a slight enhancement in speed.
Looking ahead, Microsoft remains optimistic about further improvements. The advancements made for the Run dialog are not isolated; they contribute to the overall efficiency of the operating system. If these enhancements can be replicated across other components of Windows 11, the Run dialog may serve as a pioneering example of how Microsoft can modernize its platform without sacrificing performance—a promising prospect for the future of Windows.
