How to Add Widgets to iPhone's Lock Screen

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Apple has made the Lock Screen more usable thanks to iOS 16. With iOS 16, you can now add widgets to your iPhone Lock Screen. The widgets display information such as weather, stock information, and battery level on your Lock Screen, so you don't have to go to an app to check for information. Here's how to add widgets to your iPhone's Lock Screen. 

Why You'll Love This Tip

• Quickly keep track of weather, battery power, fitness, etc.
• Avoid going to apps to check for information. 

Adding Widgets to Your iPhone's Lock Screen

You will be able to use this feature once you've upgraded to iOS 16. In iOS 16, there are two spots on the Lock Screen where you can add widgets. If you aren’t familiar with widgets, consider reading up about widgets on the iPhone. However, Lock Screen widgets are a little different than other widgets. Please be sure to sign up for our Tip of the Day Newsletter for more iOS 16 tips. Here’s how to add Widgets:

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1. To edit your Lock Screen, long press on your Lock Screen until it enters "edit" mode.
   
   
2. Select a Lock Screen you wish to add widgets to.
   
   
3. Tap Customize.
   
   
4. Tap one of the two areas where you can add widgets. I’ll start by tapping the date.
   
   
5. The Add Widgets menu will pop up. At the very top, you’ll see Suggestions. Please keep in mind that you may see different options depending on the apps you have.
   
   
6. Scroll down to see more options.
   
   
7. Tap on one to see how it looks. 
   
   
8. Next, tap the rounded rectangle below the time.
   
   
9. Here you’ll see a slightly different selection of widgets. At the top, you’ll see some suggestions. Keep in mind that you don’t have to fill the entire space if you don’t want to!
   
   
10. You might have to delete a widget from the rectangle to add another one. If so, just tap on the minus button.
    
    
11. If you scroll down, you will see a list of apps; tap on one.
    
    
12. Here you’ll see a selection of widgets available for that app. Tap the one(s) you wish to add or drag them into the space.
    
    
13. When you are done, tap the X or the background to return to the customization screen.
    
    
14. Tap Done.
    
    

Pro Tip: If you have the new iPhone 14 Pro or Pro Max, you can have the always-on display so that you can see these widgets with just a glance at your phone. You don't even have to tap it to activate it!

If you don’t see widget options from your favorite third-party apps, don’t worry! It can take some time for developers to create and offer Lock Screen widgets. Make sure to keep your iPhone and individual apps updated to see if there are any new Lock screen widgets for you to try. Next, learn how to use Apple Watch widgets!