With Windows 7, Microsoft introduced desktop theme packs (commonly known as themes) to help users customize their desktop. The desktop theme pack feature is present in the latest Windows 10 as well. A desktop theme is usually a combination of one or more wallpapers, sounds, and window colors.
Ever since the release of Windows 7, Microsoft has released hundreds of beautiful themes for Windows. One can visit the official Windows personalization gallery page to view and download all official themes available for Windows operating system.
Starting with Windows 10 build 14951, Microsoft is offering a new way to download and install desktop themes in Windows 10. Microsoft is now offering desktop themes for Windows 10 via Store in addition to personalization gallery page.
Yes, you can now download and install themes for Windows 10 from Store. While only a bunch of themes available for now, you can expect to see more themes from Microsoft in coming months once Windows 10 Creators Update is released to everyone.
Note that you must be running Windows 10 14951 or later builds to install themes from Store. If you’re on previous builds, visit this official personalization gallery page to download themes and then follow how to install and change themes in Windows 10 guide.
Install and apply Windows 10 themes from Store
Step 1: Launch the Store app. If you have any issues with Store, reset the Store or reinstall the Store app.
Step 2: Once the Store is launched, click Top apps button.
Step 3: Select Personalization from Category drop down box. If you can’t see Category box, please maximize the Store app window.
Step 4: Scroll down the page to see desktop themes for Windows 10. As you can see in pictures, it’s hard to differentiate themes from other apps.
Step 5: Click on a theme’s tile to open its page. Click on the Get button to download and install the theme.
Step 6: Once a theme is installed, navigate to Settings > Personalization > Themes section to view the installed theme. To apply the installed theme, you need to simply double-click on a theme. That’s all!
Windows 10 installs themes downloaded from Store in “C:\Program Files\WindowsApps” folder.
Want to create your own themes? Refer to our how to create your own themes in Windows guide.
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