How to Set Windows Spotlight as Desktop Wallpaper

Windows Spotlight Windows Spotlight brings stunning photos from all over the world to your screen. Usually, you only see these images when your computer is locked. With a new update, you can now bring those same beautiful images to your desktop background.

Why use Windows Spotlight?

Using Windows Spotlight keeps your desktop feeling fresh. Instead of looking at the same static image every day, your wallpaper will rotate through professional, high-quality photos automatically. It is a great way to discover new places without changing your settings manually.

What happens when you are done?

Once you finish these steps, your desktop background will switch to the Windows Spotlight theme. Your wallpaper will update periodically with new, high-quality images provided by Windows.

Requirements

This feature is currently available in the Windows 11 build 25169. It is only accessible to users in the Windows Dev channels or those enrolled in the Microsoft Insider Preview program.

Steps to set Windows Spotlight as your wallpaper

1. Open your computer’s settings. You can do this by pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard, or by clicking Start and selecting Settings.
2. 
3. Once the settings window opens, look for the Personalization tab on the left side of the screen and click it.
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5. In the Personalization menu, look for the Themes section.
6. Find the Windows Spotlight theme in the list and click on it to apply it.

Your desktop background will update immediately. You can now close the Windows settings app.

Administrative Note

Note: Some system-wide changes may require admin privileges. If you are prompted, ensure you are logged in with an account that has administrator rights to apply these theme changes successfully.

Summary

By following these simple steps, you can turn your desktop into a gallery of global photography. This feature uses the Windows Spotlight service to rotate your wallpaper automatically. Remember that this is currently limited to specific test versions of Windows 11 for Insider Preview members.