One UI 7 beta suggests Samsung might discontinue support for full-size lock screen widgets, aligning its interface closer to stock Android. This change, spotted by a Reddit user and reported by Android Authority, removes the widget carousel present in One UI 6.
Currently, One UI 6 lets users add full-size widgets to a lock screen carousel by tapping the clock, supplementing existing mini widgets. However, this carousel is absent in the One UI 7 beta, leaving only mini widgets. Previously, lock screen widget settings resided in Settings > Lock screen and AOD, offering choices like Weather, Calendar, and Digital Wellbeing.
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One UI 7, expected to launch with Android 15 alongside the Samsung Galaxy S25 series next month, will debut on the Galaxy S25, S25 Plus, and S25 Ultra. The update will later extend to existing devices like the Galaxy S24 Ultra.
This removal contrasts with Google’s potential reintroduction of lock screen widgets in Android. Present in Android 15 QPR1 and QPR2 for tablets, their future on phones remains uncertain. This creates an intriguing divergence in approach between Samsung’s One UI and stock Android regarding lock screen customization.
While Samsung might eliminate full-size lock screen widgets, users will still have access to mini widgets for quick information access. This shift simplifies the lock screen experience, potentially improving performance and battery life. However, users who appreciate the expanded functionality of larger widgets may find this change disappointing.
