Android 14 might be resurrecting lockscreen widgets but with a major overhaul.
Widgets are more than just icons on your smartphones. These little things are part of the Android signature since the first official release with Android 1.5 Cupcake. But it was axed by Google later on.
Now, widgets are allegedly returning to lockscreen with a retouch. On Twitter, Mishaal Rahman revealed an interesting systemUI flag called “widget_on_keyguard” and this is the hint referring to the possible lockscreen widget comeback.
There are two sides here. On one side, the chance of it being true is really high. But on the other side, it might just be exclusive on Pixel devices when the latest Android 14 beta build gave it away.
Don’t fret yet since any brand can simply enable it on its Android smartphones. What’s saddening is older phones won’t be seeing it.
Anyway, Google may have also reworked that on Android 14 as customizable shortcuts. It is only seen on Pixel phones, so cross your fingers and hope that the tech giant will roll it out to a wider audience.
Lockscreen shortcuts now support more apps and actions, such as camera, Do Not Disturb, flashlight, mute, and instant video recording.
You can do this by going to the Wallpapers and Style menu in the Settings, then selecting Lock Screen and tapping on the Shortcuts menu.
Android 14 is the next major version scheduled for release on October 4 to be shipped officially on the Pixel 8 series. Its main focus includes user experience, battery life, and privacy and security.
