Windows 11 to Embrace Video Wallpapers
In a move that has long been anticipated by users, Microsoft is reportedly working on a feature that will allow Windows 11 users to set videos as their desktop wallpapers. This functionality, which has been hidden within the latest preview builds of Windows 11, was first uncovered by the keen-eyed Insider known as @phantomofearth on X.
The new feature will support a variety of video formats, including MP4, MOV, AVI, WMV, M4V, and MKV. Once implemented, users will be able to enjoy dynamic visuals on their desktops, with the selected video playing seamlessly whenever they access their desktop environment.
For years, the demand for video wallpapers has echoed throughout the user community. While many Linux distributions have embraced this capability, and macOS offers similar functionality for lock screens, Windows has had a more limited history. Notably, Windows Vista introduced a feature called DreamScene, which allowed video wallpapers but was exclusive to the Ultimate SKU.
Third-party applications like Lively Wallpaper and Wallpaper Engine have filled the gap, enabling users to set not only videos but also 3D environments and interactive spaces as their backgrounds. However, the upcoming native support for video wallpapers in Windows 11 signifies a shift towards providing users with more built-in customization options.
Setting a video as wallpaper in Windows 11 is expected to mirror the simplicity of the current image-setting process, ensuring a user-friendly experience. While there are questions regarding potential impacts on battery life and system performance, the introduction of this feature is a positive step for those who seek a more personalized desktop experience.
Though Microsoft has yet to officially announce the feature, its presence in the latest preview builds suggests that a broader rollout may be on the horizon. As the company continues to refine this capability, users can look forward to a more vibrant and engaging desktop experience in the near future.
