Changing desktop background picture from stretch on Windows 7

I have a brand new Windows 7 laptop, I've changed the desktop background picture using the "personalization" item of the desktop right click menu.

Below the list that of images to choose there's a drop down with options "stretch", "fit", "tile", etc.

When I change that from stretch to anything else nothing happens, and when I return to that dialog the drop down is still on "stretch".

Anyone knows what's going on?

Edit: Apparently this is a known problem with HP/Compaq laptops.


Are you using an HP/Compaq machine? Try this:

  • Go to HP Support and Drivers website
  • Choose Download drivers and software under "Select a task and enter a product name/number:"
  • Enter your product name (e.g. pavilion 2022. Be careful as the precise model is may be important.)
  • Click on the link matching your PC model
  • Choose Windows 7 operating system
  • Scroll down the list Select software and drivers
  • Choose Wallpaper picture position enabler

Paraphrased and updated from a post by Sharon Roffey in Background won't divert from Stretch Option on the Microsoft Answers site.