diff --git a/windows/branding/README.md b/windows/branding/README.md
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+++ b/windows/branding/README.md
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+# SilverMetal Windows branding (shared, dual-mode)
+
+`Apply-Branding.ps1` writes the four branding layers either OFFLINE into a
+mounted WIM (`-Mode Offline -MountPath <mount>`, used by `installer/build.ps1`
+`Invoke-Brand`) or ONLINE onto the running system (`-Mode Online`, self-apply).
+
+Strings live in `branding.manifest.json`; images in `assets/`. See
+`docs/superpowers/specs/2026-06-09-first-boot-branding-design.md`.
+
+Layers: BitLocker pre-boot recovery message, lock-screen image (locked),
+desktop wallpaper+theme (changeable), OEM About.
diff --git a/windows/branding/assets/README.md b/windows/branding/assets/README.md
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+# Branding assets
+
+Placeholder void/cyan assets until the brand identity is finalised
+(`shared/branding/README.md`). Replace in place; keep filenames.
+
+| File | Spec | Used by |
+|------|------|---------|
+| `oemlogo.bmp` | 120×120 24-bit BMP | OEM About logo |
+| `lockscreen.jpg` | display-resolution JPG, dark | Lock/sign-in |
+| `wallpaper.jpg` | display-resolution JPG, dark | Desktop |
+| `SilverMetal.theme` | Windows .theme (dark + cyan accent) | Desktop theme |
diff --git a/windows/branding/branding.manifest.json b/windows/branding/branding.manifest.json
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+++ b/windows/branding/branding.manifest.json
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+{
+  "schemaVersion": 1,
+  "productName": "SilverMetal Windows",
+  "oem": {
+    "manufacturer": "SilverLABS",
+    "model": "SilverMetal Windows",
+    "supportUrl": "https://silverlabs.uk",
+    "supportHours": "24/7 community + paid SLA",
+    "logo": "oemlogo.bmp"
+  },
+  "bitlocker": {
+    "recoveryMessage": "SilverMetal Windows. Locked out? silverlabs.uk",
+    "recoveryUrl": "https://silverlabs.uk"
+  },
+  "lockScreen": {
+    "image": "lockscreen.jpg",
+    "lock": true
+  },
+  "desktop": {
+    "wallpaper": "wallpaper.jpg",
+    "theme": "SilverMetal.theme",
+    "accentBgr": "00d4ff",
+    "darkMode": true,
+    "lockWallpaper": false
+  }
+}