Microsoft is finally testing video wallpapers on Windows 11, giving users the option to set video files such as MP4 or MKV as desktop backgrounds. The feature has appeared in the latest Windows 11 builds and plays videos whenever the desktop is visible, creating an experience similar to third-party apps like Wallpaper Engine.
This is not the first time Microsoft has experimented with moving backgrounds. The company introduced DreamScene in Windows Vista Ultimate, which allowed video wallpapers, but dropped the feature in Windows 7. Since then, users have relied on third-party tools. Wallpaper Engine, for example, has remained a top choice and frequently ranks among the top 10 most used apps on Steam.
Video wallpapers have been one of the most requested features for Windows, and Microsoft has been working on animated background concepts for years. Earlier this year, a design preview surfaced showing how dynamic wallpapers would look. These were expected to launch in 2023 but never reached the final release.
Now, with video wallpapers in active testing, Windows 11 users may soon enjoy a long-awaited feature that blends personalization with performance. If successful, the addition could make Windows desktops more dynamic and interactive than ever.