Hobbyist Software - FAQs

Wallpaper - Reset Wallpapers

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Note: This fix applies to Multi Monitor Wallpaper, or Perfect Wallpaper. 
The steps are the same for either app.

This fix typically works if:
  1. Multi Monitor Wallpaper Wallpaper or Perfect Wallpaper won't set the wallpaper for a screen
  2. Wallpaper is lost/broken when you attach or remove monitors
What to do

  • Open Multi Monitor Wallpaper or Perfect Wallpaper
  • Open settings (click on the cog icon, or menu/preferences)
  • Click on 'Reset All Wallpapers'
  • Allow the app access to the required folder
    reset all wallpapers
This will reset all your spaces/desktops (though you won't immediately see the change in your currently visible workspace)
  • Once you have done this, you can set your wallpapers again

Background for the Technically Minded

Setting the wallpaper is actually a very simple command in Mac OS. Essentially - I say 'set this image for screen N'
Once that is done - Multi Monitor Wallpaper or Perfect Wallpaper has no part in 'keeping the wallpaper active' - the operating system is completely in charge.
This means that when the wallpaper is 'lost' - the operating system failed to properly save and restore the configuration.
In some cases, the system gets 'stuck' and stops allowing apps to set new wallpapers.

I have pinned down at least one way to reliably re-create this bug on my mac. What seems to happen is that the database where the system stores what image is applied for each screen/space gets corrupted.
  • The database is stored at ~/Library/Application Support/Dock/desktoppicture.db
  • I have reported this to Apple (and submitted a demonstration project and corrupted database

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