Google announces that Android 16 QPR1 will bring lock screen widgets to smartphones.

 

Google announces that Android 16 QPR1 will bring lock screen widgets to smartphones.

Key Highlights:

• Android 16 QPR1 is expected to launch in late summer 2025 via AOSP.
• Google confirms that lock screen widgets will be introduced for smartphones.
• Developers can test widgets on the Pixel Tablet before the broader rollout.

Lock Screen Widgets Coming to Smartphones with Android 16 QPR1

With the release of Android 15 QPR2 in December 2024, Google reintroduced lock screen widgets on tablets, starting with the Pixel Tablet. This led many users to wonder if the feature would also make its way to smartphones—and it looks like it will.

As part of its Spotlight Week, where Google focuses on enhancing widgets, the company has officially announced that lock screen widgets will arrive for smartphones with the Android 16 QPR1 update.

What Lock Screen Widgets Will Offer in Android 16 QPR1

According to a new FAQ page titled “Widgets on Lock Screen”, Google explains that these widgets will allow users to personalize their experience by providing quick access to important functions, such as:

• Checking the time and setting alarms
• Viewing vital information and stock updates
• Managing smart home devices like lights and thermostats

With this update, Android users will soon be able to enjoy a more customizable and functional lock screen experience on their smartphones.

Lock Screen Widgets in Android 16 QPR1: Availability and Limitations

Google has confirmed that lock screen widgets will be included in the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) for both smartphones and tablets following the release of Android 16 QPR1. The update is set to be pushed to AOSP in late Summer 2025.

However, in its initial rollout, OEMs will not be able to customize the lock screen widget’s user interface. This means that the developer experience will remain consistent across all devices, regardless of the manufacturer.

Despite this limitation, OEMs will have the ability to pre-set and automatically display default widgets on their devices, ensuring some level of customization for users.

Customization and Developer Guidelines for Lock Screen Widgets in Android 16 QPR1

While OEMs won't be able to customize the lock screen widget’s UI in the initial rollout, Google has confirmed that the mechanism for triggering widgets will be customizable.

Key Customization Options for OEMs:

• OEMs can choose to trigger widgets based on charging or docking status.
• Third-party OEMs can also implement their own posture detection as a trigger mechanism.

Widget Sizing and Developer Recommendations:

• Expected Size: Widgets will likely be around 4x3 cells on the launcher, though exact dimensions may vary by device.
• Design Recommendations: Google advises developers to support dynamic color and resizing to ensure a seamless user experience.
• Quality Standards: Widgets must follow the same quality, sizing, and configuration guidelines as home screen widgets.

Testing and Initial Rollout:

• Developers can initially test lock screen widgets on Pixel Tablet devices, which first received support with the Android 15 QPR2 update in December 2024.
• The feature is expected to expand to smartphones with Android 16 QPR1 later in Summer 2025.

This update aims to enhance the lock screen experience while maintaining consistency across devices.