Google has officially announced the return of lock screen widgets with Android 16, bringing the long-requested feature back to Android tablets and smartphones. Previously available only on the Pixel Tablet, this functionality will soon be accessible on a broader range of devices after the operating system’s official release.
A Long-Awaited Comeback
For longtime Android users, lock screen widgets are a blast from the past. They were once a staple feature in early Android versions but were removed after Android 4.4 KitKat, forcing users to rely on third-party apps or workarounds. With Android 16, Google is finally reintroducing this functionality, providing users with at-a-glance information without unlocking their devices.
According to Google, lock screen widgets will be enabled shortly after Android 16 launches, allowing developers to integrate them into their apps. The first wave of devices running Android 16 is expected to roll out in June 2025, with the new feature following shortly thereafter.
How Lock Screen Widgets Will Work
While the lock screen widgets aren’t yet enabled in the current Android 16 beta, Android Authority managed to activate the functionality and uncovered some interesting details about how it works:
- On tablets, users can swipe right from the lock screen to access widgets, similar to the existing implementation on the Pixel Tablet.
- On smartphones, the feature works differently. Users must activate Android’s screensaver mode, which only runs when the device is charging or docked.
This difference in activation methods suggests that Google is still fine-tuning how lock screen widgets will work across different form factors.
Custom Implementations by Smartphone Makers
One of the most intriguing aspects of this feature is that Google is giving developers and manufacturers control over how lock screen widgets will be triggered. This means we might see varied implementations from smartphone brands:
- Samsung could integrate widgets into its Always-On Display (AOD).
- OnePlus might allow customization through OxygenOS gestures.
- Google Pixel devices could take inspiration from the Pixel Tablet’s swipe-right interaction.
This level of flexibility and customization ensures that different manufacturers can tailor the experience to their devices, making lock screen widgets more seamless for users.
What to Expect Moving Forward
As Android 16 nears its official release, more details about lock screen widgets will likely emerge. Key questions still remain, such as:
- Will widgets work when the phone is locked, or will users need to authenticate?
- Will Google integrate widgets with its existing At a Glance and Assistant features?
- Will third-party apps like Spotify, WhatsApp, and Google Calendar be able to support them immediately?
With Google’s official developer blog now addressing lock screen widgets, it’s clear that this feature will play a big role in Android 16’s user experience. Stay tuned for more updates as Google finalizes the implementation in the coming months.
