How to Set a Live (Animated) Wallpaper on Your Phone

Tap your device to see how to set it up.

iPhone

Go to Settings > Wallpaper > Add New Wallpaper and choose the 'Live' category -- press and hold the screen and the wallpaper will subtly move.

Android

In your wallpaper settings, choose the 'Live Wallpaper' category for a range of animated backgrounds, like ripples or particle effects.

Consider the battery impact

A live wallpaper can use more battery than a static image, so if that is a concern for you, sticking with a still wallpaper is worth considering.

Why it is useful

A wallpaper that moves every time you open your home screen gives your phone a livelier, more personal feel.

When a Still Photo Starts to Feel Flat

Swapping a fixed photo for a live wallpaper that shifts subtly whenever you touch the screen adds a small bit of fresh personality every time you glance at your home screen.

It Is Not Limited to the Home Screen

Most devices let you set a different live wallpaper for the lock screen and the home screen independently, and some phones even let you turn a short video you filmed yourself into a live wallpaper.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a live wallpaper work on the lock screen too?

Yes -- most devices let you set a separate live wallpaper for the lock screen and the home screen independently.

Can I use my own video as a live wallpaper?

Some phone models let you turn a short video you recorded yourself into a live wallpaper, though this is not available on every device.