Apple released iOS 16 earlier today, and one of the most notable features the update introduces is a redesigned lock screen experience. For the first time, Apple lets you customize the font and accent color of on-screen elements like the date and time. Also, you can finally add widgets. As of today, there are a handful of Apples to choose from, but in the coming days and weeks, you can expect most app developers, including Google, to add their own.
On Monday, Google detailed what users of Search, Chrome, Drive, Maps, Gmail and News can expect once those apps support iOS lock screen widgets. For the most part, there aren’t many surprises here. Most apps will come with several different widgets, allowing you to access some features with a single tap. For example, Chrome widgets include shortcuts to the browser’s incognito mode and voice search. There’s even a separate widget for Chrome’s dino game in case you find yourself offline and need something to pass the time.
The best part is that you won’t have to strain to download anything. “Once our widgets are available, simply press and hold on the lock screen to start customizing,” says Google. You can expect them to arrive in the “next few weeks,” according to the company.
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