Key points
- Microsoft released ten new wallpapers to celebrate twelve years of the Windows Insider Program, according to Neowin.
- The images include white, green, orange, purple, and dark-theme variants inspired by the Windows 11 Bloom background, per Windows Central.
- File metadata indicates the wallpapers were created using the Mac version of Adobe Photoshop by Microsoft’s in-house design team, according to Windows Central.
The short version
- Microsoft distributed ten new desktop wallpapers to users participating in the Windows Insider Program to mark the initiative's twelfth anniversary.
- The collection features multiple color options and dark themes, all derived from the visual style of the standard Windows 11 Bloom background.
- Technical inspection of the files revealed they were produced on Apple Mac computers using Adobe Photoshop, rather than on Windows devices.
The details
Microsoft distributed a set of ten new wallpapers to celebrate twelve years of the Windows Insider Program, according to Neowin. The images are all reminiscent of the Windows Bloom wallpaper that ships with Windows 11 and has been remixed several times by Microsoft and enthusiasts, per Windows Central. Users can download the images via a direct link provided by the company or find them in an email from Microsoft if they are enrolled in the program.
The collection includes white, green, orange, and purple variants as well as several dark-theme wallpapers, according to Windows Central. Microsoft stated that the backgrounds were inspired by twelve years of the Windows Insider Program and the latest Surface design aesthetic. The company thanked Insiders for their participation, noting that the community is at the heart of recent program changes and meetups.
View the original post on X
View the original post on X
The context
Rafael Rivera checked the properties of the wallpapers and noticed that they were created using the Mac version of Adobe Photoshop, according to Windows Central. Rivera noted in a follow-up post on X that the images were made by Microsoft's in-house design team. This detail drew criticism because Microsoft is currently refreshing Windows 11 and positioning it as a selling point for new PC purchases.
The situation emerged at an awkward time for the tech giant, which recently shared a blog post highlighting Windows 11 features. Having Windows Insider wallpapers created on a Mac opens the door to jokes about Microsoft staff preferring Apple products, per Windows Central. However, the outlet noted that it is reasonable for creators to use tools that get the job done, even if Photoshop is available on Windows 11.
What to watch
- Monitor for any official clarification from Microsoft regarding the tools used for future marketing materials or design assets.
- Watch for community reactions on social media platforms like X and Reddit, where users may discuss the irony of the situation.
- Observe if Microsoft adjusts its messaging around Windows 11 productivity tools in response to the criticism.
- Keep an eye on whether similar metadata issues arise with other recent Microsoft releases or promotional content.
What it means for organisations
Organisations should review their own digital asset creation workflows to ensure consistency between brand messaging and the tools used. Teams usually align design processes with the products they promote to avoid public perception issues. Check whether internal design teams are using compatible software that reflects the company's core offerings. Communicate with marketing and IT departments about the potential reputational risks of using competitor platforms for official assets. Ensure that all stakeholders understand the importance of aligning technical choices with public-facing narratives.
What to do and how to stay safe: Microsoft
- Verify the metadata of any downloaded wallpapers or images if you are concerned about their origin or integrity.
- Check your email inbox for the official distribution from Microsoft if you are a Windows Insider and have not yet received the files.
- Review your own desktop background settings to ensure they comply with your organisation's branding or security policies.
- Monitor official Microsoft channels for any further updates or clarifications regarding the Windows Insider Program anniversary.
Step-by-step guide: Secure Home Routers for Small Business Networks
General security guidance from the TechSec Headlines newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.
Frequently asked questions
How many wallpapers did Microsoft release for the Windows Insider anniversary?
Microsoft released a set of ten new wallpapers to celebrate the twelfth anniversary of the Windows Insider Program, according to Neowin.
What colors are available in the new wallpaper collection?
The collection includes white, green, orange, and purple variants as well as several dark-theme wallpapers, per Windows Central.
Were the wallpapers created on a Windows device?
No, file metadata indicates the wallpapers were created using the Mac version of Adobe Photoshop by Microsoft’s in-house design team, according to Windows Central.
