One UI 8: Third-Party Widgets Coming to Samsung Galaxy Lock Screen. Samsung is leveraging a new Android 16 feature to bring third-party widgets to the lock screen of Galaxy smartphones and tablets.
One UI 8: Third-Party Widgets Coming to Samsung Galaxy Lock Screen
What’s New in One UI 8 for Samsung Galaxy
Samsung is working on One UI 8.0, based on Android 16, which is expected to introduce major improvements. One of the most anticipated changes is support for third-party widgets on the lock screen, something that was previously available only for Samsung’s own apps.
With this new feature, users of Samsung Galaxy smartphones and tablets will be able to add widgets from apps like Google Home, Spotify, and WhatsApp directly to the lock screen, enhancing usability and productivity.
How Will the New Widgets Work in One UI 8?
According to Google, Android 16 QPR1 will allow Google Pixel users to add widgets to the lock screen. This feature will be integrated into the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) in the summer of 2025, enabling all manufacturers to adopt it.
Samsung plans to take advantage of this new feature in One UI 8.0, giving users more customization options. For example, you will be able to add:
✔ Google Home Widget → Control your smart home devices without unlocking your phone.
✔ Spotify Widget → Quick access to your favorite music.
✔ WhatsApp Widget → Preview messages without opening the app.
One UI 8.0: When Will It Be Released for Samsung Devices?
Google will release Android 16 earlier than usual, about three months ahead of the expected date. According to reports, Samsung will roll out One UI 8.0 on time, avoiding the delays seen with One UI 7.0 (Android 15).
👉 Rumors suggest that Samsung might skip One UI 7.1 and One UI 7.1.1 to deliver One UI 8.0 faster to Galaxy devices. In fact, test builds of the software have already been spotted for the Galaxy S25 series.
One UI 8.0 is bringing one of the most useful customization features to Samsung Galaxy devices. Thanks to Android 16, users will be able to add third-party widgets to the lock screen, enhancing their experience.
📌 Stay tuned for more updates on the One UI 8.0 release date and first tests!
