Google restored widgets to tablet lock screens with the December release of Android 15 QPR2, beginning with the Pixel Tablet. Since then, people have been speculating about whether the capability might eventually appear on cellphones as well, and it appears that it might. The Mountain View-based software company has revealed that widgets will finally be available on smartphones with the Android 16 QPR1 update, as part of its Spotlight Week, which places an increased emphasis on widgets.
Android 16 QPR1 Lock Screen Widget Program
The company emphasised that lock screen widgets allow customers to customise their devices’ experiences on a new frequently asked questions page for “Widgets on lock screen.” They have access to widgets that allow them to examine important information, set alarms, check the time, read stock updates, and even control smart home appliances like thermostats and lights.
Google claims that after Android 16 QPR1 is released, lock screen widgets will be accessible in the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) for smartphones and tablets. In late summer 2025, the update itself is expected to be published to AOSP. However, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) will not be able to customise the lock screen widget’s user interface in its first version. Therefore, regardless of the device, the developer experience will be the same. On their individual devices, they can, nevertheless, preset and show default widgets.
In the meanwhile, it is possible to customise the widget triggering method. According to Google, OEMs have the option of using docking or charging status as widget triggers. Additionally, third-party OEMs have the option to use their own posture detecting system.
Although their precise measurements are said to differ by device, the widgets are anticipated to be around 4 by 3 cells on the launcher. Google recommends that developers incorporate dynamic colour and scaling into their widgets to give customers the greatest possible experience. They have to adhere to the same quality standards for configuration, sizing, and quality as home screen widgets.
The Pixel Tablet devices that gained support after the December 2024 release of Android 15 QPR2 will be the first platforms on which developers can test their widgets.
CREDIT: Gadget360, Allneeds
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