With the launch of Android 15 QPR2 in December, Google introduced lock screen widgets for tablets, starting with the Pixel Tablet. This move sparked curiosity among smartphone users about when, or if, the same feature would be available on their devices. Now, it seems their questions will soon be answered. During its Spotlight Week, which focuses on enhancing widgets, Google revealed that smartphones will finally gain lock screen widgets with the Android 16 QPR1 update.
The addition of lock screen widgets in Android 16 QPR1 is designed to provide users with a more personalized experience right from the moment they unlock their devices. In an official FAQ page titled “Widgets on lock screen,” Google explained that these widgets will allow users to check the time, set alarms, track vital information, read stock updates, and even control smart home devices like lights and thermostats—all directly from the lock screen. This update will give users quick access to essential tools without the need to unlock their phones or navigate through apps.
Android 16 QPR1’s lock screen widgets will be available in the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) for both smartphones and tablets, with the update expected to roll out in late summer 2025. While this feature will be included for all devices running Android 16 QPR1, it will initially be limited in customization options. OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) will not be able to modify the lock screen widget’s user interface at launch. Instead, the feature will offer a consistent experience across all devices, with the option for manufacturers to pre-set default widgets that automatically appear on their devices.
This move is expected to further enhance the functionality of Android’s lock screen, making it a more dynamic and user-friendly part of the device experience. Users will be able to interact with their most important apps and settings without unlocking their phones, streamlining tasks and improving efficiency. As smartphone use continues to evolve, this update to Android 16 QPR1 marks another step toward a more customizable and seamless user interface.
