Buzz
Ever wanted your Mac's wallpaper to be more dynamic? Plash is a no-cost application that allows you to set any website as your desktop background, complete with interactive capabilities.
While there's a simple method to convert any YouTube video into wallpaper on Windows, this Mac alternative lets you use any website. Beyond practical uses, like replacing the lackluster desktop widgets in macOS Sonoma with a full-screen Google Calendar, the real appeal lies in setting something visually stunning as your wallpaper.
Steps to convert any URL into an animated wallpaper on Mac
Begin by downloading Plash from the Mac App Store or Github. The app resides in the menu bar—click its icon to set it up.
I suggest clicking Add Website and entering a few URLs. While any website works, the options can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there's a Github thread packed with excellent suggestions. Here are some standout ideas:
A webcam feed from a random window, allowing you to imagine being elsewhere.
Global wind patterns, giving you a bird's-eye view of the planet.
Bing's Photo of the Day, offering a daily random photo without using Bing.
Random Street View, letting you explore random locations throughout the day.
The iconic flying toasters, bringing back 80s nostalgia.
Classic art paired with quotes, adding a touch of sophistication.
Matrix-style falling code, transporting you back to a 2003 dorm room.
These are just a few examples—there's an entire internet of possibilities. Whatever you choose, you can activate Browsing Mode from the menu bar to interact with the website serving as your wallpaper.
You also have the option to apply custom CSS to any website, enabling features like transparent backgrounds to reveal your desktop. The thread I mentioned earlier includes examples and instructions, such as customizing Google Calendar. This app offers endless tinkering potential, so have fun exploring.
