Lock screen widgets may return in Android 14 and shortcuts are now customizable

Remember Android’s widgets on the lock screen? Mishaal Rahman on

A new system UI flag called "widget_on_keyguard" indicates that Google is working on bringing back widgets on the lock screen. However, since this was discovered in the latest Android 14 beta, it could be a Pixel-exclusive feature.

Although the evidence is scant, it would make sense for Google to reintroduce the feature, since Apple used widgets in the iOS lock screen last year, which is likely to trigger a response from the search giant.

In addition to the purported new features, the latest beta also allows users to change the shortcuts on the lock screen. That's right, the shortcuts located in the lower left and right corners of the screen. The feature is coming to Pixel phones again, so we don't know yet if other Android 14 phones will get it.

So now you can choose between various apps and actions instead of using default shortcuts. You can choose the camera app, Do Not Disturb mode switch, flashlight, Google Home app, silent switch, QR code scan, wallet or instant video recording.

To set these elements, you only need to enter the "Wallpaper & Style" menu in "Settings", select "Lock Screen", and then find the "Shortcuts" submenu.