Table of Contents
Widerpaper is a solution tailored to the needs of Ultrawide monitor users that often encounter difficulties when selecting and setting up new wallpapers. This project aims to solve those issues!
When applying a conventional 16:9 wallpaper to an Ultrawide screen, the result is often a distorted, stretched, or improperly cropped image that fails to take full advantage of the monitor's extra space.
Widerpaper's primary objective is to adapt 16:9 wallpapers to the 21:9 aspect ratio of Ultrawide monitors. By applying mirror algorithms and blur techniques, this solution expands the original image content allowing users to enjoy a visually engaging wallpaper that fully covers their Ultrawide screen space.
Unlike standard .NET MAUI apps, which are distributed as MSIX files, Widerpaper is shared as an unpackaged application. This approach requires the users to manually install the necessary dependencies for the application to function properly on their system.
Also, note that while .NET MAUI is designed for cross-platform compatibility, Widerpaper is written exclusively for Windows computers. More especifically Windows 10 and Windows 11.
- Windows App SKD
- Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable
- Microsoft Edge WebView2
- Windows 10 version 1809 or higher (Windows 11)
- Download the latest version of the Widerpaper app from the Releases page.
- Unzip the downloaded file and place the folder somewhere accessible on your computer (e.g.:
Desktop,Documents) - Inside the unzipped folder, launch the app by clicking the
_WiderpaperRedux.exefile. - (Optional) Create a shortcut of the executable file to launch the app from the Start menu or from the desktop.
There are a couple of algorithms at your disposal to convert your wallpapers into Ultrawide.
Simple Mirror: This algorithm extends the image by mirroring its left and right sides until it fits the Ultrawide aspect ratio (21:9).
Mirror with Gaussian Blur: This algorithm first duplicates the left and right sides of the image using the Simple Mirror technique to be Ultrawide. Lastly, Gaussian Blur is applyed in the mirrored area.
Smooth Blur Transition: This algorithm applies a sigmoid function to the blurred section within the Mirror with Gaussian Blur image.
Below, are listed my plans for future enhancements and features that will be implemented within the app. Stay tuned for the exciting developments on the horizon! Be sure to Star the project to stay updated on all the latest developments!
- Localization to PT-BR
- Distribute as MSIX file
- Release on Microsoft Store?
- Add app personalization
- UI Theme
- App behavior
See the open issues for a full list of proposed features (and known issues).
First and foremost, this project is a result of both passion and learning. It all began because of the consistent frustration I faced while attempting to set new Ultrawide wallpapers to my personal computer. I then realized I could continue advancing my skills in C# and .NET through the development of a solution to this specific problem. In the end, it also presented an exciting chance to explore MAUI development, a technology I've been eager to learn more about. This combination gave rise to the creation of Widerpaper.
Widerpaper Redux is a continuation of my prior attempt to solve said issue, published here on GitHub called simply Widerpaper. The key difference is the broadening of the original scope. Unlike the initial version that featured only the Simple Mirror algorithm and employed Blazor Server for hosting, this iteration aims for multiple algorithms to be choosen from and is targeted for desktop users.
Through the course of development, I've had support from friends who assisted me in testing, provided valuable insights, and backed my crazy ideas. Thanks guys!!
I really hope this app can help you and others set up new wallpapers!
Any feedback, bug report, and feature request are greatly appreciated.
If you have a suggestion that would make Widerpaper better, please create an issue with the tag "enhancement". (Request Feature)
If it is a bug or another problem you come across while using the app, open an issue with the tag "bug". (Report Bug)
Don't forget to give the project a Star! Your support is greatly appreciated. Thank you once again!
Currently, Widerpaper does not have a specific license in place. If you're interested in contributing with your code, kindly initiate the process by opening an issue and sharing your ideas.
To be fair, I'm new to licensing (mostly because I've never needed it before). If you have recommendations for a suitable license, don't hesitate to open an issue, and we can engage in a discussion!
I am looking forward to have a conversation and I will be very happy to chat!