Android
Android 15 QPR1: Lock screen widgets close to launch
Top 3 Key Points:
- Feature Development: Google is nearing the release of lock screen widgets in Android 15 QPR1, expected by December.
- Tablet-Exclusive: Initially, these widgets will only be available on tablets, not phones.
- User Caution: Widgets are accessible without unlocking the device, so be mindful of displaying sensitive information.
Google has confirmed that the Android 15 update for Pixel devices will be delayed until October. While this may disappoint some, the extra time allows Google to ensure the update is stable. The initial release of Android 15 doesn’t introduce many new features, so users aren’t missing out on much. However, the first quarterly platform release (QPR1) will likely include a long-awaited feature: lock screen widgets.
Earlier this year, reports surfaced that Google was working to reintroduce Android widgets on the lock screen. Throughout the Android 15 beta, this feature has significantly progressed. With the recent release of Android 15 QPR1 Beta 1, the lock screen widgets feature is nearly ready for launch, as evidenced by the new introductory text explaining the feature. This update suggests that Google is refining the feature for an official release, which could happen as early as December with the Android 15 QPR1.
In the latest beta, the lock screen widget area now provides a brief introduction, informing users that they can access their favorite app widgets without unlocking their tablet. Previously, this area was empty, and users had to manually enable the feature to see it in action. It’s worth noting that the introductory text specifically mentions tablets because, unfortunately, phones won’t support lock screen widgets in Android 15 QPR1.
When users tap the “Add Widgets” button, they are taken to the lock screen widget editor interface. This interface has been updated in Android 15 QPR1 Beta 1 with an introductory dialog. The dialog welcomes users to the lock screen widgets feature and includes a few important notes: To open an app using a widget, users will need to verify their identity. It also reminds users that anyone can view the widgets even when the tablet is locked. This serves as a helpful caution against adding widgets that might display sensitive information.
Additionally, the introductory dialog includes a disclaimer stating that “some widgets may not have been intended for your lock screen and may be unsafe to add here.” This is notable because earlier versions of the feature had a toggle in Settings to “allow any widget on [the] lock screen.” Now, it seems that all widgets are allowed, regardless of their intended use. However, shortcuts are still not permitted on the lock screen, so users will need to unlock their tablets to access them from the home screen.
Given these updates, it’s clear that the lock screen widgets feature is close to being finalized. The feature already functions well, but one question remains: Will Google keep lock screen widgets exclusive to tablets, or will they optimize them for phones in the future?
Google’s May 2025 Android updates bring exciting changes to improve how your phone works and how you message. These updates focus on making devices faster, safer, and more user-friendly.
One big change is to Android’s memory system. By increasing the memory page size from 4KB to 16KB on newer devices, apps can load quicker and use less power. This helps phones, especially those with modern chips, run smoothly and save battery life. Older devices will stick with the smaller page size to avoid issues.
The Google System Updates for May also add new features. Google Wallet now supports more card types and makes transit passes easier to use in apps like Google Maps. The Play Store now shows video previews of apps, helping you decide what to download. There are also fixes to improve battery life, storage, and network performance, making your phone more reliable.
For Google Messages, a new “delete for everyone” feature lets you remove sent messages from group chats within 15 minutes. This works for both RCS and SMS, so you can fix mistakes easily. Other messaging upgrades include better scam detection and the ability to send high-quality photos and videos. These updates show Google’s effort to make Android devices faster, more secure, and better for communication. Keep your phone updated to enjoy these improvements!
Google is rolling out exciting changes to its YouTube, Gemini, and Google Home apps, making them more user-friendly and packed with cool features. These updates, announced in May 2025, aim to improve how you watch videos, edit images, and control your smart home.
The YouTube app for TVs is getting a fresh look. You’ll see better video previews, easier ways to subscribe to channels, and a smoother interface for browsing playlists and comments. Autoplay will also work smarter, keeping you hooked on your favorite content without extra clicks. These changes will hit your screens by summer 2025, perfect for binge-watching on Google TV or Android TV.
Meanwhile, the Gemini app now lets you edit images like a pro. Want to change a photo’s background or add fun elements? Just type what you want, and Gemini’s AI makes it happen while keeping the original picture intact. It even adds a small “ai” watermark to show it’s edited. This feature is available in the U.S. and works on both uploaded and AI-made images, with more countries getting access soon.
The Google Home app (version 3.32) is also stepping up. It now supports more smart devices, like cameras and doorbells, and offers quicker controls for lights and thermostats. A new “Activity” tab lets you see what’s happening with your devices in one place, making your smart home easier to manage.
These updates show Google’s focus on making its apps simpler and more powerful, whether you’re streaming, creating, or managing your home. Keep an eye out for these changes to enhance your daily tech experience
Google is rolling out its May 2025 software update for Pixel devices, making things smoother for phones, tablets, and the Pixel Watch app. This update is all about fixing bugs and adding a small but nice change for Pixel Watch users. It’s available for devices running Android 15, like the Pixel 6, 7, 8, 9 series, and Pixel Tablet. The rollout started on May 7, 2025, and will reach devices over the next week, depending on your carrier.
For Pixel phones and tablets, the update tackles three key issues: better microphone recording, improved Bluetooth pairing, and general performance tweaks. It also includes 28 security fixes, with one possibly being targeted by hackers, so updating soon is a good idea. If you have a Pixel 6 or 8, note that this update locks the bootloader, meaning you can’t go back to older software versions.
On the Pixel Watch side, there’s no major device update this month, but the Pixel Watch app on Android now has a light theme option. This gives the app a brighter, cleaner look, making it easier to use in different lighting.
Google might share more about Wear OS at I/O 2025, but for now, the app’s new style is a welcome touch. To get the update, check your device settings. Pixel users can expect a notification soon, but you can also manually check for it. Stay updated for a better, safer experience.
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