*Eureka* - update: MS Spotlight is *BACK* - & by itself after a week! - original OP is here, below the Update.

[UTUSN]

Last edited Sun Oct 12, 2025, 03:40 PM - Edit history (1)

So I tried the first, easy steps in MS "Help" (no help) shown in the original OP below a few times different days, Restarting and such, no go. Finally, yesterday after one of those sessions, tried Google, where the MS steps were basically repeated, but with the addition of: WAIT A FEW DAYS TO SEE IF IT COMES BACK. And, the random comment that the MS software is designed (hah! ) to FIX ITSELF!!!!!!!!!

Plus, another random comment, that the problem might have been caused by the previous Update and that should wait until the OCTOBER UPDATE. And Google said the October Update will be for the 14th.

And today, voila, IT'S BACK!

Not again! - MS "Spotlight" disappeared itself after years (different laptop)

That app with the gorgeous pictures of nature, historical architecture, nature - pics changing every day or so, upon Startup until PIN takes you to desktop.

I don't know the difference between that, Lockscreen, whatever.

I've Googled (again) and done the things, Settings/Personalization/Lockscreen - "Change from 'Spotlight' to 'Picture' or 'Slideshow' then back - to Spotlight -------------no go. Then "Sign out of MS account then back In" -------------no go.

Will *not* do the Advanced stuff.