How to Change the Windows 11 Lock Screen Wallpaper Automatically Using Windows Spotlight

When you turn on your Windows 11 computer or lock your screen (by pressing Windows Key + L), you are greeted by the Lock Screen. By default, many computers display a static, generic blue ribbon background or a pre-selected photo from the manufacturer that never changes.

If you are tired of staring at the exact same image every single day, you can enable a feature called “Windows Spotlight.” This native tool connects to Microsoft’s Bing image servers and automatically downloads a stunning, high-resolution photograph from around the world (such as a sprawling landscape, exotic wildlife, or striking architecture) every 24 hours, completely refreshing your lock screen automatically.

How to Enable Windows Spotlight

1. Open the Windows 11 Settings app by pressing Windows Key + I.
2. In the left-hand navigation pane, click on Personalization.
3. In the main right-hand menu, click on Lock screen.
4. Look for the section labeled Personalize your lock screen.
5. Click the dropdown menu next to it (it is likely currently set to “Picture” or “Slideshow”).
6. Select Windows spotlight from the dropdown list.

You can immediately verify that the feature is working by pressing Windows Key + L to lock your computer. You should instantly see a brand new, high-quality photograph replacing your old static background.

Interacting with Spotlight Images

Because these images are pulled from Bing, Microsoft occasionally includes interactive elements.

If you see an incredible photograph of a mountain range on your lock screen and want to know where it is located, look in the top-right corner of the screen for a small text box that usually says something like, “Like what you see?” or offers a hint about the location. If you hover your mouse over this text, it will display the exact real-world location of the photograph.

Furthermore, if you hate the current image (for example, if you dislike photos of bugs), you can hover over the “Like what you see?” text and click “Not a fan.” Windows Spotlight will instantly learn your preference, permanently delete that specific photo, and immediately download a brand new image to replace it.