Lock screen widgets are officially a part of Android 16 in the latest QPR2 Beta 1 release. The new feature adds a second page to the lock screen that houses proprietary and third-party widgets.
Just like adding widgets to the home screen in Android 16, adding widgets to a secondary page on the lock screen is now possible for mobile devices. This feature is already available for the Pixel Tablet. The option appears in the lock screen settings via a toggle labeled “widgets on lock screen.”
Once enabled, swiping from right to left on the lock screen shows a new page Android 16 deems “hub mode.” Hub mode seems to be part of Google’s initiative to make Pixel and Android devices more accessible during charging, especially when using a stand. This also sets up the new screen saver options debuted on the Pixel 10 series.
Widgets can be added and moved in the traditional sense. Long-tapping the widget page from the lock screen allows you to edit items. Widget size can be customized just like on the home screen, and any widgets that don’t fit overflow into a new page. There doesn’t seem to be a limit on the number of pages.
Editing or tapping a widget through the new lock screen hub will require an unlocked device.
There are a couple of initiation options, too. Widgets can be automatically shown when the device is charging or upright and charging, or they can be restricted from appearing automatically. Alternatively, Android 16 QPR2 offers screen savers, which can be anything from Google Home controls to photos.
Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1 is available now via OTA from Google.
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