How to Add Widgets to Your iPhone Lock Screen (iOS 17 & 18 Guide)

Lock screen widgets let you see information — the weather, your battery, or a doodle from your partner — without unlocking your iPhone. Here's how to add them in under a minute.

#What you need

• An iPhone running iOS 16 or later (lock screen widgets), iOS 17+ recommended
• The app that provides the widget, installed and opened at least once

#How to add a widget to your iPhone lock screen

1. Touch and hold your lock screen until the wallpapers start to shrink.
2. Tap Customize, then choose Lock Screen.
3. Tap the widget area below the clock (or the small area above it for inline widgets).
4. Scroll the list or search for the app — for example Tuyo.
5. Tap or drag the widget you want. Rectangular widgets take two slots; circular widgets take one.
6. Tap Done in the top-right corner.

Tip: You can fit up to four circular widgets, two rectangular widgets, or a mix of one rectangular and two circular.

#How to add an inline widget above the clock

Tap the date above the clock while customizing and pick an app. Tuyo's inline widget shows your partner's name and your current streak — e.g. "Thu 24 · Leo · 12-day streak".

#How to remove or rearrange lock screen widgets

While customizing, tap the minus (–) on any widget to remove it. To reorder, drag widgets left or right.

#Lock screen widget not updating? Try this

• Open the app once. Widgets refresh after the app has run at least once.
• Turn off Low Power Mode. iOS limits background refreshes when it's on.
• Check notifications. Apps like Tuyo use notifications to deliver new content instantly.
• Restart your iPhone. It clears stuck widget caches.
• Re-add the widget. Remove it and add it again.

#Best lock screen widgets for couples and friends

• Tuyo — your partner's latest doodle, a one-tap "send heart" button and your streak. See all Tuyo widgets →
• Locket — the latest photo from your friends.
• Weather and calendar — practical, and great paired with a countdown to your next visit.

For a full comparison, read the best lock screen widget apps for couples.

#What about the Dynamic Island?

On iPhone 14 Pro and newer, some apps use the Dynamic Island for Live Activities. Tuyo shows your partner's drawing live in the Dynamic Island while they draw — no widget setup needed, just allow Live Activities in Settings → Tuyo.

#Frequently asked questions

#Why can't I add widgets to my lock screen?

You need iOS 16 or later, and the app must be installed and opened once. If the app still doesn't appear, it may not offer lock screen widgets.

#How many widgets can I have on my iPhone lock screen?

Up to four small circular widgets or two rectangular widgets below the clock (or a mix), plus one inline widget above the clock.

#Can I have different widgets on different lock screens?

Yes. Each lock screen (and Focus mode) can have its own wallpaper and widgets.

#How do I add a widget on Android instead?

Long-press your home screen, tap Widgets, then drag the widget into place. Android 16 and newer also support lock screen widgets.