Your Pixel’s lock screen may be about to get its biggest shortcut upgrade in years

Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority TL;DR The lock screen on Pixel devices may soon allow users to add app shortcuts. While other Android brands let you add widgets to the lock screen, Pixels limit users to basic shortcuts such as flashlight and camera. Among Android OEMs, Samsung already lets users add app shortcuts to the lock screen.

The lock screen on Pixel devices may currently seem limited compared to rival Android devices. Google currently lacks the option to add lock screen widgets that a host of others, seemingly inspired by iOS, have, and currently limits users to basic shortcuts placed at the bottom of the screen — unless you use an unofficial app to tap into hidden lock screen features . That could change soon, as Google seems to be testing an option that not only outpaces other Android rivals but also iOS.

You’re reading an Authority Insights story. Authority Insights brings you all the latest exclusive reports, app teardowns, leaks, and in-depth tech coverage from the Android Authority team that you won’t find anywhere else.