Microsoft is making significant strides in enhancing the user experience on Windows 11 by working on a much-requested feature: the ability to set a video as your desktop wallpaper. This exciting development was first uncovered by Insider user @phantomofearth on social media platform X, and it's hidden within the latest preview builds of Windows 11.
The upcoming feature will allow users to choose from a variety of video formats for their desktop background, including MP4, MOV, AVI, WMV, M4V, and MKV. Once implemented, users will enjoy a dynamic desktop experience, as these videos will play seamlessly whenever the desktop is visible.
For many years, the desire to set a video as a desktop background has been voiced by users. While Linux distributions have long supported this functionality, and macOS has allowed moving backgrounds on the lock screen, Windows has lagged behind. The last time Windows offered this feature was in Windows Vista, through the Ultimate SKU via a function called DreamScene. Unfortunately, this feature was not carried over to later versions of Windows, leaving users without a native option for video wallpapers.
To bridge this gap, third-party applications like Lively Wallpaper and Wallpaper Engine emerged, enabling users to set not only videos but also 3D environments and interactive scenes as their wallpaper. However, many users feel that they shouldn't have to rely on third-party tools for such a basic feature. With the introduction of native video wallpaper support in Windows 11, this concern is set to be addressed.
Once this feature is rolled out, setting a video as your wallpaper will be just as straightforward as the current process for selecting an image. This means that users can easily enhance their desktop experience without any hassle, making their Windows 11 interface more personalized and engaging.
In summary, Microsoft's upcoming support for video wallpapers in Windows 11 is a welcome addition that aligns with user demands for greater customization options. With support for various video file types and an easy setup process, users can look forward to a more vibrant and dynamic desktop environment.