How to Remove the 'Learn About This Picture' Icon in Windows 11

The latest updates to Windows 11, specifically the 24H2 update, have introduced some exciting AI features. However, there is a quirky little element that has raised eyebrows amongst users — the "Learn About This Picture" icon. Often popping up when you set a Spotlight background on your desktop, this icon may not resonate with everyone's aesthetic preferences. If you're one of those users who find this icon distracting and want it gone, you're in luck! Here’s how to banish it from your desktop.

What is the 'Learn About This Picture' Icon?​

For those who might be wondering, the "Learn About This Picture" icon acts as a gateway to more information about the current wallpaper image displayed on your desktop. When using Windows 11’s Spotlight feature to set dynamic backgrounds—pictures that change regularly—this icon appears automatically. While it’s designed to enhance your experience by providing additional context about the images, many users simply wish to relax and enjoy their wallpaper without the distraction of an extra icon.

The Good News​

Windows 11 allows you to remove this icon, though it requires a bit of maneuvering through the Registry Editor. It’s not as complicated as it sounds, so let’s tackle this together!

Step-by-Step Instructions​

Step 1: Open the Registry Editor​

• Use the search bar on your taskbar and type “Registry Editor” or "regedit."
• Select the Registry Editor from the search results.

Step 2: Navigate to the Relevant Key​

• Once inside the Registry Editor, you’ll need to navigate to a specific path. Copy and paste the following address into the address bar at the top of the window:
  

   Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\HideDesktopIcons\NewStartPanel

Step 3: Locate the Icon Identifier​

• In the NewStartPanel section, look for an entry that has a long identifier:
  

   {2cc5ca98-6485-489a-920e-b3e88a6ccce3}

Step 4: Modify the Value​

• Select that entry and look for the “Value data” field.
• Change the value to 0—this effectively tells Windows to hide the icon.

Step 5: Apply Changes​

• Click OK to confirm your changes.

Step 6: Refresh Your Desktop​

• Simply refresh your desktop by right-clicking on an empty space and selecting “Refresh.” Alternatively, you can restart your PC to apply the changes fully.

Additional Hot Tips​

• If you ever change your mind, just follow the same steps, but this time set the "Value data" back to 1.
• If you're looking to change your wallpaper again, right-click on the desktop, select “Personalise,” and then choose a new background without fear of seeing that pesky icon again.

Conclusion​

Removing the "Learn About This Picture" icon from your Windows 11 desktop doesn’t have to be a cumbersome task. With just a few clicks within the Registry Editor, you can reclaim your desktop space from this uninvited guest. Have you experienced the 24H2 update? If it hasn’t graced your PC yet, or if your system is older and incompatible, there are still clever tricks to upgrade. Your desktop should be a canvas—enjoy it free from distractions!
Feel free to drop your thoughts or questions in the comments; we’re here to help! Happy customizing!

---

This guide provides a clear and friendly approach to helping users navigate through the oftentimes intimidating landscape of the Windows Registry. Embrace the beauty of a clutter-free desktop and enjoy your personalized experience on Windows 11!
Source: Gadget Bridge How to remove the ‘Learn About This Picture’ icon in Windows 11