You can use Lively Wallpaper to play a video or GIF on the Windows desktop. Windows’ ordinary background controls are separate, so use the app only if you want an animated background and accept the additional resource use.
Install the genuine app
Start with the official Lively project and its download links, including the Microsoft Store option. Avoid similarly named download sites. Installation size and requirements can change; there is no fixed 740 MB requirement for every release.
Add a local video or GIF
- Open Lively and test one of its included backgrounds.
- Choose Add Wallpaper, or drag a supported local media file into the app.
- Select your video or GIF and check the preview.
- Choose the intended display and apply the background.
- Check cropping, sound and playback settings for your desk setup.
A short, muted local video is a useful starting point. Match its shape to the screen where possible. A portrait clip on a widescreen monitor may need cropping or leave unused space.
Choose sensible playback rules
| Situation | Setting to check |
|---|---|
| Playing a fullscreen game | Pause playback while the game is active. |
| Using a laptop on battery | Pause on battery if you want to reduce extra work. |
| Using several monitors | Choose the intended screen arrangement and test its resource use. |
| Video sound is distracting | Mute the wallpaper’s audio. |
Lively’s performance documentation describes pause rules. Actual CPU, GPU and battery use depends on the wallpaper, decoder and computer; do not assume every animation has no cost.
What about online videos?
Web content can depend on the service, player, connection and current Lively support. A URL that works in a browser may not play as a wallpaper. Start with a supported local file if an online source fails, and use media you are allowed to use. Do not treat wallpaper software as a way to bypass a site’s access controls.
Return to a normal background
Close or disable the active wallpaper through Lively, and turn off its start-with-Windows option if you do not want it to return automatically. Then choose your normal picture or other supported background in Windows Personalization.
For a multi-screen setup, our main-display guide helps identify the correct screen. Animation, display colour and monitor arrangement are separate settings, so change one at a time when troubleshooting.
Frequently asked questions
Does Windows’ picture setting directly play an MP4?
Use a supported wallpaper app for the workflow described here; the ordinary picture option is different.
Can a video wallpaper affect battery life?
Yes. Enable suitable pause rules and compare your actual system.
Will every YouTube link work?
No. Online playback depends on current app and service support.
How do I stop the animation returning after login?
Disable the active wallpaper and review Lively’s startup setting.