How to Set Up Lock Screen Widgets on Android

Tap a step to see how it works.

  1. Note that settings vary by manufacturer

    Lock screen widget support and menu locations differ by manufacturer and Android version, so it's worth checking your own device's settings path first.

  2. Open lock screen settings

    Long-press the lock screen and choose "Customize lock screen," or go to the Lock screen menu in the Settings app.

  3. Change the clock style

    Tap the clock to switch between styles like a small clock, a large clock, or a dual clock.

  4. Add lock screen shortcuts

    Tap the shortcut icons at the bottom left and right of the screen to assign frequently used functions like flashlight, camera, or QR scan.

  5. Add a widget

    Select "Add widget" to place things like weather, calendar, or a to-do list on your lock screen, so you can check information the moment you turn on the screen.

  6. Save and apply your settings

    Once you're happy with the layout, tap Done to save, then wake the lock screen again to confirm the changes took effect.

For checking information without unlocking

Instead of unlocking your phone every time just to check the weather or your schedule, placing a widget on your lock screen lets you see the information you need the moment you turn on the screen.

Also check out Android's notification history

If you're worried about missing a notification, it's worth looking into how to use Android's notification history to catch anything you missed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can every Android device use lock screen widgets?

Support and menu locations vary by manufacturer and Android version, so the option to add a widget may not even appear on older devices.

Does adding several widgets drain the battery faster?

Adding multiple widgets that refresh in real time can increase battery use somewhat, so it's best to add only the ones you check often.