Windows 11 Introduces Video Wallpaper Feature, Bringing Dynamic Desktops to Life

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September 23, 2025

Redmond, Washington – Microsoft is reportedly developing a feature that will enable Windows 11 users to personalize their desktops with video wallpapers. This development evokes nostalgia for a similar capability-dubbed dreamscene-first introduced in Windows Vista nearly two decades ago.

A Blast From the Past: reintroducing Dynamic Desktops

The resurgence of animated backgrounds comes after apple’s recent iOS 26 and MacOS Tahoe 26 updates, which included visually similar “Liquid Glass” effects. According to sources, Microsoft’s implementation aims to provide a native solution for dynamic desktop customization, mirroring functionality currently available through third-party applications like Wallpaper Engine and Lively.

The capability was initially spotted within the latest Windows 11 dev and Beta builds by reliable leakster PhantomOfEarth. Users can presently access the feature through Settings > Personalization > Background, selecting a video file instead of a static image. Supported video formats include MP4, MOV, AVI, WMV, M4V, and MKV.

How to Activate the Feature

Although not yet widely available, tech enthusiasts can activate the feature utilizing ViveTool, with the feature ID 57645315. It’s vital to note that, at this stage, video wallpaper support is limited to the desktop and does not extend to the lock screen.

A History of Animated Backgrounds

The concept of dynamic desktop backgrounds isn’t new. Windows Vista’s DreamScene, while popular, was eventually removed in Windows 7, citing performance concerns. Today, Android and Linux also offer native live wallpaper options. Even MacOS allows users to set slow-motion videos as their Lock Screen background, as highlighted in a previous Archyde report from 2023.

Operating System	Native Live Wallpaper Support	Year Introduced
windows Vista	Yes (DreamScene)	2006
macOS	Limited (Lock Screen Videos)	2023
Android	Yes	2013
Linux	Yes (Distribution Dependent)	Variable

Did You Know? The original DreamScene feature in windows Vista allowed for surprisingly complex animated backgrounds, but it proved resource-intensive for manny computers of the time.

Pro Tip: Before enabling video wallpapers,consider your computer’s processing power. Animated backgrounds can consume significant system resources, possibly impacting performance and battery life.

Potential Performance Considerations

While the revival of animated backgrounds offers a compelling aesthetic enhancement, concerns regarding resource consumption and battery drain remain. Historically, such features have been criticized for their impact on system performance; though, Microsoft’s current implementation might potentially be more power-efficient.

the Evolution of Desktop personalization

Desktop personalization has consistently been a key area of innovation for operating systems. From simple colour schemes to elaborate animated backgrounds, the ability to customize one’s computing environment has always been highly valued by users.The return of video wallpapers represents a continuation of this trend, offering a new level of visual dynamism.

Frequently asked Questions

• What is video wallpaper? Video wallpaper allows you to set a moving video as your desktop background instead of a static image.
• Will video wallpaper drain my battery? Potentially, yes.Animated backgrounds consume more system resources than static images, which can reduce battery life.
• what video formats are supported? The current implementation supports MP4, MOV, AVI, WMV, M4V, and MKV.
• Is this feature available to all windows 11 users now? No,the feature is currently in testing and requires activation via ViveTool.
• Can I use video wallpaper on the lock screen? Currently, the feature is limited to the desktop only.

Will you be enabling video wallpaper on your Windows 11 desktop? What kind of videos would you choose to create your ideal dynamic background? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

What are the potential performance impacts of using video wallpapers on Windows 11?

What is a Video Wallpaper in Windows 11?

Windows 11 has upped the personalization game with the introduction of video wallpapers. Forget static images – now you can set short, looping videos as your desktop background, adding a dynamic and visually engaging element to your computing experience. This feature transforms your desktop from a functional space into a captivating display. While not natively built-in, accessing this functionality is now streamlined thru third-party applications.

How to Get Video Wallpapers on windows 11

Currently, Microsoft doesn’t offer a native video wallpaper feature within Windows 11 settings. Though,several excellent applications enable this functionality. Here’s a breakdown of popular options:

* Lively Wallpaper: A highly recommended, free and open-source submission. It supports various video formats (MP4, AVI, MOV, etc.) and allows you to browse a library of pre-made wallpapers or use your own videos. It’s known for its low resource usage.

* Wallpaper Engine (Steam): A paid application available on Steam.Wallpaper Engine offers a vast community-created library of interactive and animated wallpapers, including video options. It also allows for customization and scripting.

* DeskScapes (Stardock): Another paid option, DeskScapes provides a range of customization options, including video wallpapers, and integrates well with Windows themes.

Critically important Note (as of September 23, 2025): Always download software from official sources to avoid malware. Microsoft recommends waiting for Windows Updates to provide official features before using third-party installation tools like the Windows 11 installation Assistant (https://support.microsoft.com/zh-cn/windows/%E5%AE%89%E8%A3%85-windows-11-%E7%9A%84%E6%96%B9%E6%B3%95-e0edbbfb-cfc5-4011-868b-2ce77ac7c70e).

Optimizing video wallpapers for Performance

Using video wallpapers can impact system performance, especially on older hardware. Here’s how to minimize the strain:

1. Resolution: Choose videos with a resolution matching your monitor. Using a higher resolution video than your screen supports will unnecessarily tax your GPU.
2. File Size & Codec: Opt for videos with smaller file sizes and efficient codecs like H.264 or H.265 (HEVC).
3. Looping: Ensure the video loops seamlessly to avoid jarring transitions.
4. Application Settings: Within the chosen application (Lively Wallpaper, Wallpaper Engine, etc.), adjust settings to limit CPU and GPU usage. Many apps offer performance profiles.
5. Hardware Acceleration: Enable hardware acceleration within the video wallpaper application if available. This offloads processing to your graphics card.

Finding and Creating Video Wallpapers

* Online Resources: Websites like ArtStation,Reddit (r/wallpaperengine),and YouTube offer a wealth of free and paid video wallpapers.

* Creating Your Own: You can create your own video wallpapers using video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, or even simpler tools like Windows Movie Maker. Keep the video short and loopable. Consider creating subtle animations or nature scenes for a calming effect.

* Converting Existing Videos: Use video converters to change the format and resolution of existing videos to make them suitable for use as wallpapers.

Benefits of Using Video Wallpapers

* Enhanced aesthetics: Adds a unique and personalized touch to your desktop.

* Increased Engagement: A dynamic background can make your computing experience more enjoyable.

* Calming Effects: Nature scenes or abstract animations can create a relaxing atmosphere.

* Showcase Creativity: Allows you to express your personality and interests.

* Improved Focus (perhaps): Some users find subtle, moving backgrounds help maintain focus.

Troubleshooting common Issues

* High CPU/GPU Usage: Adjust video resolution,file size,and application settings.