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How to Add or Remove Mixed Reality Pane in Windows 11

Written by

Richard

Dec 28, 2022 Updated Apr 30, 2026 3 min read

How to Add or Remove Mixed Reality Pane in Windows 11

The Mixed Reality pane in Windows 11 settings is a tool for managing VR headset connections. It helps you set up your virtual space and boundaries.

Why do this? You might want to clean up your settings menu or troubleshoot a missing connection. What happens when done? You will see or hide the Mixed Reality tab in your settings menu.

Important Deprecation Notice: Windows Mixed Reality

Microsoft is removing Windows Mixed Reality from Windows 11. If you update to Windows 11 version 24H2, the legacy Mixed Reality Portal will no longer work. You should prepare to move away from this platform. If you use a VR headset, you may need to look into alternative software like SteamVR or manufacturer-specific apps.

Mixed Reality Portal vs. Mixed Reality Link

The Mixed Reality Portal was the old hub for VR devices. The new Mixed Reality Link app is designed to help bridge the gap for specific hardware. Check the official Microsoft Store page for the Mixed Reality Link app to see if your device is supported.

Feature	Mixed Reality Portal	Mixed Reality Link
Status	Deprecated	Active/Transitionary
Function	Full VR Environment	Connection Bridge
Compatibility	Legacy Headsets	Modern VR Hardware

Connecting Your Meta Quest 3

Many users now use the Meta Quest 3 for PC streaming. You do not need the legacy Mixed Reality Portal for this. Instead, use the Meta Quest Link software or third-party streaming apps. This provides a better experience than the older Windows tools.

Manually Adding or Removing the Mixed Reality Pane

Note: These steps require administrator privileges.

Open the Windows Registry by pressing the Windows key, typing regedit, and pressing Enter.
Navigate to this path: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Holographic
If you do not see the Holographic folder, right-click on the CurrentVersion folder, select New, and create a Key named Holographic.

add or remove mixed reality from the settings app registry

Right-click inside the empty space on the right side of the Holographic folder.
Select New then DWORD (32-bit) Value.
Name this new value FirstRunSucceeded.
Double-click FirstRunSucceeded to change its settings.
Set the Value data to 1 to show the Mixed Reality button. Set it to 0 to remove the button.

add or remove mixed reality from the settings app registry value data

After you save your changes, open your Windows Settings app to see the results.

Summary

You can toggle the Mixed Reality pane in Windows 11 by editing the FirstRunSucceeded value in the Registry. However, remember that Windows Mixed Reality is being deprecated in version 24H2. For the best experience, transition to modern tools like the Mixed Reality Link app or manufacturer-specific software for your VR headset.

Is Windows Mixed Reality being removed from Windows 11?

Yes, Microsoft has officially deprecated Windows Mixed Reality. It is being removed from the operating system starting with the Windows 11 24H2 update. Users are encouraged to transition to alternative VR platforms and software solutions to maintain access to their virtual reality content and hardware functionality.

Can I still use my VR headset after the Windows 11 24H2 update?

If your headset relies on the legacy Windows Mixed Reality Portal, it will stop working after the 24H2 update. However, if your device supports SteamVR or uses its own proprietary software, you may still be able to use it by bypassing the Windows-specific VR tools entirely.

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Tags: #Windows 11