Google is working on customizable shortcuts on Android’s lockscreen

Google is working on an option to customize lockscreen shortcuts. Currently these are two fixed shortcuts, but users will have more choice in a future release, according to code in the operating system. Samsung’s One UI can already do that.

Source: 9to5Google

The code is in the QPR2 beta, writes 9to5Google. That is the version that will probably be released for Pixel phones around March. Other brands may use the system under the name Keyguard Quick Affordances.

Pixel phones now have fixed shortcuts to the camera and Google Wallet, but users get more choices, such as switching on the LED flash as a flashlight or a QR code scanner. Users can’t put every app as a shortcut on the lockscreen; this is a limited list.

This has been possible for some time in Samsung’s Android shell One UI and users can choose from all apps. However, many apps require the user to unlock the device before they can open the app. This is not necessary, for example, when using the camera app or turning on the flash.