Los widgets on android lock screen They have been a feature that has come and gone over the years. While in older versions of the operating system it was a native option, Google decided to remove them starting with Android Lollipop. However, with new versions and customizations from manufacturers such as Samsung, it has become possible to use them again. To better understand this functionality, it is interesting to know what are android widgets.
In this article we will explore all the ways you can Add and customize widgets on your device's lock screen, whether by using native features in Android 12 or higher on some models, third-party apps, or alternatives such as the new support in Android 15. In addition, we will see what options exist to customize this functionality and how they can help you improve the usefulness of your smartphone.
How to add widgets to the lock screen on Samsung
Samsung is one of the brands that works the most on Android customization, and with the arrival of One UI 4.0 based on Android 12, has brought back widgets on the lock screen. If you are interested in learning more about these new features, check out our article on What's new in One UI.
To activate them, you must follow these steps:
- Open your Samsung phone's settings.
- Go to option "Lock screen".
- Within this section, select "Widgets".
- You will see a list of available widgets, such as clock, calendar, health or alarms. Activate the ones you prefer.
- To access them, simply tap the clock on the lock screen and swipe down.
These widgets are limited to Samsung's pre-installed apps, so if you're looking to include widgets from other apps, you'll need to use another method.
If you want a more customizable watch, you can read about the options it offers clock on lock screen.
Bring back widgets on your lock screen with Lockscreen Widgets
If your device is not Samsung or you simply want to access more options, the application Lockscreen Widgets offers a solution without having to modify the original lock screen. With this option, you can explore various functions, as well as learn how to customize lock screen.
This app allows you to add any widget to your lock screen without replacing it, avoiding compatibility issues with security features like fingerprint unlocking.
Steps to configure Lockscreen Widgets
- Download the application from the Google Play Store.
- When you open it for the first time, grant it the necessary permissions, especially the accessibility permission, which will allow widgets to overlay the lock screen.
- Push the button "+" and select the widget you want to add.
- Once added, you can move and resize of the widget using finger gestures.
- The app allows you to create multiple pages of widgets that you can browse from the lock screen.
It is a very interesting option, although it has a cost of 1,69 EurosIf you have programming knowledge, you can also download the code from GitHub and compile it.
Alternatives to customize widgets on the lock screen
In addition to the Samsung option and Lockscreen Widgets, there are other third-party applications to customize the lock screen with widgets. One of the most popular is DashClock, which allows you to add a clock widget to your home screen with extensions that display additional information, such as unread emails, weather, or notifications.
Widget Locker Lockscreen
This is a complete lock screen replacement, with the ability to add custom widgets and shortcuts. If you want to learn more about how to modify your lock screen, you can check out our article on create your own lock screen.
Go locker
Very popular among Android users, Go locker allows you to customize your lock screen with different styles and widgets. It's ideal for those looking for more customization. For more information on widget functionality, check out our article on clock on android lock screen.
The return of widgets in Android 15
With Android 15, Lock screen widgets are back, although with limitations. In the beta version of the system it has been confirmed that this function is available, but only on devices with support for the Hub mode, like the Pixel Tablets.
To activate them on Android 15:
- Go to Settings > Hub Mode.
- Activate the option “Show widgets on the lock screen”.
- Also enable “Allow any widget on lock screen”.
- Swipe right on the lock screen to access widgets.
As this is still a beta feature, its implementation may change in future stable releases. This is relevant for users looking for Android 15 news.
The availability of widgets in Android 15 shows that Google is reconsidering this feature, but for now its implementation is limited to certain devices. While widgets on the lock screen are not universally available On all Android phones, there are various ways to incorporate them depending on the type of device you have. Samsung has integrated the function into its phones with One UI, while applications such as Lockscreen Widgets allow you to bring this feature to any smartphone. On the other hand, Android 15 marks the official return of widgets, although for now in a restricted way. If you are looking to improve accessibility to information without unlocking your phone, these options will allow you to customize your device to your liking.