‘This is Android’s smart lock screen you’ll never get’

Google was working on a smart lock screen for Android that automatically showed relevant features on your phone. That content was adapted depending on the time of day or where you would be, but in the end Google scrapped the idea. We discuss what was the purpose of the smart lock screen in Android.

smart lock screen

Screenshots have been leaked of a feature in Android 11 that never appeared on our phones. Insiders at Google spoke to Android Authority about a smart lock screen that displays useful functions depending on the circumstances. Why the feature was eventually dropped during Android 11 development is unknown.

We get some examples that outline how the smart lock screen should have worked. When you view the lock screen in the evening, for example, you will see buttons with which you can turn off your smart lamps before going to sleep. You can immediately turn on your security camera or set an alarm for the next day. Smart is also that the lock screen can recommend podcasts or music the moment you plug in headphones or connect via bluetooth.

Help in the supermarket or the station

According to the leaks, the lock screen may also display certain features depending on your location. For example, if you are in the supermarket, you will be given the option to pay quickly via Google Pay or the option to bring out your loyalty cards. On the other hand, if you are in a train or bus station, you can open Google Maps in one go to view the arrival times of public transport.

The intent was originally for developers to optimize their apps so that certain features could show up in the smart lock screen. There’s some uncertainty about the exact reason why Google didn’t develop the feature in Android 11 after all, but one possible explanation is that Google may have feared that too few developers would be willing to tweak their apps. Though that’s just speculation.

What do you think of the smart lock screen? Does it seem like a handy addition to Android and do you hope that Google will breathe new life into the idea? Perhaps this feature does not appeal to you at all. Let us know in the comments at the bottom of this article.

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