- Microsoft tests video wallpapers inspired by Windows DreamScene.
- Hidden feature in Insider Dev/Beta builds, spotted by @phantomofearth.
- Confirmed support for MP4 and MKV and integration into Personalization.
- Performance and battery impact to be determined; no release date.
The historical idea of use videos as desktop background returns to the scene in the Microsoft ecosystem. A feature reminiscent of Windows DreamScene, that Windows Vista bet that allowed you to animate the desktop with looping clips.
As shared by Insider testers, the feature is built into the background picker itself and plays the clip every time the background is displayed. desk (for example, by minimizing windows or by pressing "Show desktop«). For the moment, this is a novelty in tests and its behavior, performance and final scope are still under evaluation.
What was Windows DreamScene and why is it coming back?
DreamScene debuted in 2007 as part of Windows Vista Ultimate, allowing you to set videos in continuous loops as a background. Although its impact was striking at the time, it was no longer included natively in Windows 7 and ended up disappearing completely with Windows 8, opening space for third-party solutions.
The reappearance of the concept in Windows 11 is not just meant to appeal to nostalgia: it fits in with the line of reinforcing the customization of the system. Now, the goal would be to offer a simple setting for users who want a basic animated background without installing additional tools.
How the new option works in Windows 11 (Insider)
In test builds, the option is integrated into Settings > Personalization > Background, similar to choosing a static image. Reports indicate confirmed compatibility with MP4 and MKV files, playing the video when the desktop is visible, with automatic loop.
There are unknowns to be resolved: It is unclear whether resolution or duration limits will be imposed, or how the system will manage them. clips with high bit rates. No advanced tools (e.g. filters or effects) are mentioned for now, which points to a first implementation native and simple.
As in past solutions, the video plays when you return to the desktop, either by closing/minimizing windows or by using the "Show desktop", which bets on a discreet experience with no intermediate steps.
Availability, builds, and hidden activation
The feature has been localized in the builds Insider Dev/Beta most recent and was flagged by the user @phantomofearth in X (as already happened with the Speed test found on Windows 11). Although there are mentions of build 26×20.6690, Microsoft has not officially announced it and it remains hidden in the system..
For advanced users, some methods describe activation via a Feature ID (57645315) and the restart of the process explorer.exeWhich suggests that development is ongoing. In any case, there are no guarantees of arrival to the stable version nor a specific date, although it would not be strange if it is deployed in weeks or months if no problems arise.
Impact on performance and battery
Playing a video on the desktop may incur a cost. GPU/CPU, especially with high-resolution clips. On laptops, its effect on the battery will be monitored. For now, there are no official figures; internal tests will determine whether to apply optimizations, such as pausing the animation on energy savings or limit the refresh rate.
Another relevant detail is the scope of the function: reports indicate that reproduction affects only the desk and not to the screen lock, which would reduce its impact at times when the device is inactive or non-interactive.
What about third-party apps?
Tools like WallpaperEngine o lively-wallpaper have led this category with extensive libraries, 3D scenes and interactive options. Microsoft's solution, for now, would cover the basic use case: putting a looping video as a background with no extras.
For many users, this native alternative will be sufficient and will avoid additional installations. For those looking for advanced effects, Third-party applications will continue to have a functional advantage and customization capacity far above of what the system offers in this first phase.
Context: End of Windows 10 and commitment to customization
The company is strongly pushing Windows 11 while Windows 10 faces end of support on October 14.. Recovering an iconic function like DreamScene fits with the strategy of enhance the visual experience, Add Personalization options and appeal to those who want a more dynamic desktop.
In parallel, Microsoft has explored aesthetic improvements and widgets, with which this novelty adds to a set of adjustments that seek to make the more attractive and flexible system without complicating the configuration.
How to try it (if you're an Insider)
If you participate in the Dev/Beta channels and the option is available in your build, you can activate it from Settings > Personalization > Background and select a compatible file. If it is still hidden, some users report that it is possible to enable it with the Feature ID mentioned, always under your responsibility.
- Fast route: Settings > Personalization > Background > Choose Video.
- Formats: confirmed MP4 and MKV in the reported tests.
- Behavior: Play when displaying the desktop, with loop.
- State: function in development, no official launch announcement.
Everything points to Microsoft testing the waters to bring back the essence of DreamScene with a simple and native approach- A built-in option, basic support for desktop video, and room for improvement based on testing results and Insider feedback.
I am a technology enthusiast who has turned his "geek" interests into a profession. I have spent more than 10 years of my life using cutting-edge technology and tinkering with all kinds of programs out of pure curiosity. Now I have specialized in computer technology and video games. This is because for more than 5 years I have been writing for various websites on technology and video games, creating articles that seek to give you the information you need in a language that is understandable to everyone.
If you have any questions, my knowledge ranges from everything related to the Windows operating system as well as Android for mobile phones. And my commitment is to you, I am always willing to spend a few minutes and help you resolve any questions you may have in this internet world.