Windows 11 doesn’t support live wallpapers right out of the box 📦. But don’t worry! You can still get those cool, moving backgrounds with a little help from a third-party app. 🌟 This article will guide you through setting up a live wallpaper in Windows 11 using a popular app called Lively Wallpaper. Let’s dive in!
How to Start Using Lively Wallpaper
🚀 Lively Wallpaper is the go-to app for adding cool animated wallpapers to your Windows 11 desktop. It’s totally free and open source, which sets it apart from other wallpaper apps that might cost you money or offer limited features unless you pay.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Lively Wallpaper:
1. Download the App:
- Grab Lively Wallpaper directly from the developer’s homepage or from Lively’s page on the Microsoft Store.
2. Install and Launch:
- Once installed, open the app from the Start menu or hit the Open button on the Microsoft Store page.
3. Choose Your Wallpaper:
- The home screen of the app, known as the Library, showcases 12 awesome live wallpapers ready for you.
- Simply click or tap on the wallpaper you like to set it up on your desktop. It’s that easy!
4. Explore Interactive Wallpapers:
- Check out the “Triangles & Light” wallpaper for some fun. Move your mouse around and watch the light change!
- For the science enthusiasts, the “Periodic Table” wallpaper is perfect. Tap on elements to learn about their atomic structure and weight.
👀 See the Change: After setting your wallpaper, take a moment to admire how different your desktop looks!
Customize a Live Wallpaper
🎨 Lively Wallpaper not only beautifies your desktop but also lets you personalize the animations to your taste. Here’s how to make a wallpaper truly yours:
Steps to Customize:
1. Access Settings:
- Click on the ellipsis (…) on the wallpaper tile you like. This opens up a menu of options.
2. Explore the Options:
- About: Curious about the wallpaper’s origins? Click here to visit its GitHub page and check out the source files.
- Preview: Want a sneak peek? Select this to see what the animation looks like before you set it.
- Customize: Ready to tweak? This option lets you adjust settings specific to the wallpaper you’ve chosen. Note: If some options are grayed out, that wallpaper can’t be customized.
Extra Tips:
- Intuitive Menu: The menu is straightforward, and the default settings are so spot-on, you might find you rarely need to adjust anything!
Use a Lively Wallpaper for Multiple Monitors
Lively Wallpaper supports setups with more than one monitor. Here’s how to make your animated wallpapers look amazing on all your screens:
Quick Setup for Multiple Monitors:
1. Open Settings:
- Click on Active Wallpaper(s) at the top-right corner of the app.
2. Choose Your Display Setup:
- Selected Screen Only: Set the wallpaper on just one of your monitors.
- Span Across Screens: Stretch one wallpaper across two or more monitors for a continuous look.
- Duplicate Same Wallpaper: Apply the same wallpaper on every monitor for a uniform style.
3. Confirm Your Choice:
- Hit OK to apply your settings.
Flexible Display Selection:
If you often switch wallpapers and screens, check the Always pick screen when choosing wallpaper option. This lets you decide which monitor to beautify each time you pick a wallpaper. Keep in mind, this feature works only with the Selected Screen Only option.
How to Use Your Own Image or Video as a Live Wallpaper
Want to make your desktop truly unique? Lively Wallpaper lets you use your own GIFs, HTML, videos, or even YouTube videos as live wallpapers. Here’s how to do it:
How to Add Your Personal Touch:
1. Start Adding Wallpaper:
- Click on + Add Wallpaper in the top-right corner of the app.
2. Upload Your Content:
- Drag and Drop: Simply drag a supported file into the app window.
- Upload from PC: Click the Open button and select a file from your computer.
- Use a YouTube Video: Enter a YouTube URL to set a video as your background.
3. Set and Enjoy:
- After adding your file, click OK to set it as your desktop background. Your new wallpaper will also appear in the Library.
Managing Your Wallpapers: Want to switch things back? You can easily delete any custom wallpaper from the options menu and return to your default desktop look.
Create Custom Depth Wallpapers With AI
Transform any static image into a dynamic, 3D-looking wallpaper using the power of AI with Lively Wallpaper. Here’s how you can add some depth to your desktop:
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Depth Wallpapers:
1. Initiate the Process:
- Click the Add wallpaper button located at the top-right of the app.
2. Prepare for AI Magic:
- Choose Advanced from the dialog box.
- Click Download if it’s your first time using this feature, as the app needs to fetch some additional files.
3. Upload Your Image:
- Select Depth Wallpaper. You can either upload a new image or choose a static wallpaper from your Library.
4. Let AI Do Its Work:
- Hit Continue and watch as AI adds a 3D effect to your image.
5. Experience the Magic:
- Go to your desktop and move your mouse around to see the depth effect in action.
Adjusting the Depth: Want more or less depth? Simply click the ellipsis (…) on the wallpaper in the Library and select Customize. Adjust the Horizontal and Vertical sliders to fine-tune the depth effect.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to spice up your desktop with dynamic wallpapers or personalize your screens with unique, interactive backgrounds, Lively Wallpaper offers a robust set of tools to transform your desktop experience. From setting up live wallpapers across multiple monitors to creating depth with AI, this app not only enhances your desktop aesthetics but also lets you inject a personal touch with ease. Dive into the world of animated wallpapers and see how your desktop comes alive with just a few clicks.
Remember, with Lively Wallpaper, your desktop’s potential is only limited by your imagination. So, start exploring today and make your workspace as vibrant and dynamic as you are!
FAQ
What is Lively Wallpaper?
Lively Wallpaper is a free, open-source app that allows you to set live wallpapers on your Windows 11 desktop. It supports a range of formats including GIFs, videos, and even YouTube videos, enabling you to personalize your desktop with dynamic backgrounds.
Does Lively Wallpaper support multiple monitors?
Yes, Lively Wallpaper supports multiple-monitor setups. You can choose to display a wallpaper on selected screens only, span a single wallpaper across multiple screens, or duplicate the same wallpaper on all screens.
Can I use my own images or videos as wallpapers in Lively Wallpaper?
Absolutely! Lively Wallpaper allows you to use your own images, GIFs, or videos as wallpapers. You can upload files directly from your PC or use a YouTube URL to set a video as your wallpaper.
How do I customize a live wallpaper in Lively Wallpaper?
To customize a live wallpaper, click the ellipsis on the wallpaper’s tile, then select ‘Customize’. Here, you can adjust various settings, although some options may be grayed out if the wallpaper isn’t customizable.
What is the AI Depth feature in Lively Wallpaper?
The AI Depth feature in Lively Wallpaper lets you transform static images into dynamic wallpapers by adding a depth effect, creating a more immersive 3D appearance. This requires downloading additional files the first time you use it.
How can I adjust the depth effect created by AI in Lively Wallpaper?
To adjust the depth effect, go to the wallpaper in the Library, click the ellipsis, and select ‘Customize’. Here, you can modify the depth intensity using the Horizontal and Vertical sliders to enhance or reduce the 3D effect.
