To change lock screen on Android, open a photo in Google Photos, tap the three-dot menu, choose Use as, then Wallpaper, and select Lock screen or both screens. However, the exact steps vary by device maker and Android version, so your phone may follow a different path than the one shown here.
Before you change your lock screen on Android
A crucial disclaimer: steps to change the lock screen depend on your device maker (Samsung, Google, OnePlus, etc.) and your Android version. What works on a Pixel may not work on a Galaxy, and older Android versions lack some customization options.
Set up a screen lock (PIN, pattern, or password) is necessary to access lock screen settings.
Active internet connection is needed to download new lock screen wallpapers or update lock screen settings.
You can change lock screen security type (PIN, pattern, fingerprint) via Settings > Security or Lock Screen.
How to change your lock screen wallpaper with Google Photos
This is the most universal, documented method for changing wallpapers and themes on phones. It works on most Android devices because Google Photos is pre-installed or widely available.
- Open the Google Photos app.
- Tap the photo you want to use as your lock screen wallpaper.
- Tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
- Choose Use as, then Wallpaper.
- When prompted, select Lock screen or Home screen and lock screen.
The photo will immediately appear on your lock screen. If you don’t see the option for both screens, your device may only allow setting the wallpaper for the home screen or lock screen separately.
How to change lock screen wallpaper on a Google Pixel
Pixel phones have a specific, documented path in Settings for showing your chosen wallpaper on the lock screen and always-on display.
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap Display & touch.
- Tap Always-on display.
- Turn on Show lock screen wallpaper.
With this setting enabled, your lock screen wallpaper will also appear on the always-on display when the screen is off. If you skip this step, the always-on display may show a plain black screen instead of your wallpaper.
Alternative lock screen apps for more customization
For users who want features beyond the default options, like custom widgets, different unlock styles, or a completely new lock screen interface, third-party apps from the Google Play Store offer more control. Here are a few popular choices:
- AcDisplay: A minimalist lock screen that shows notifications and offers quick access to apps without unlocking the phone.
- Next Lock Screen: Developed by Microsoft, it learns your usage patterns and displays relevant apps and information based on time of day and location.
- Hi Locker: Allows personalization with themes, wallpapers, and widgets, plus multiple unlock methods including fingerprint, PIN, and pattern.
- WidgetLocker: Lets you add widgets, shortcuts, and sliders to the lock screen for a highly customized layout.
- Espier Screen Locker: Mimics the iOS lock screen design with slide-to-unlock, music controls, and quick app access.
After installing a third-party lock screen app, you typically need to set it as your default lock screen through the app’s settings or your device’s lock screen menu.
Android allows you to add or customize lock screen widgets via Settings > Lock Screen or Widgets option.
You can control which apps display notifications on the lock screen via Settings > Lock Screen or Notifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I change the lock screen on my Android device?
Go to Settings > Security & Lock Screen > Lock Screen/Screen Lock to choose pattern, PIN, password, or fingerprint.
How do I disable the lock screen on my Android device?
Go to Settings, then Security & lock screen or Lock screen. Choose Screen lock type and select None or Swipe. If None is not available, your device may require a screen lock for security features like biometrics or mobile payments.
What should I do if I forget my lock screen pattern, PIN, or password?
Enter the wrong pattern, PIN, or password several times until a “Forgot pattern” or “Forgot password” option appears. Tap it and sign in with your Google account to reset the lock screen. If that fails, a factory reset will erase all data but allow access again, use this only as a last resort.
Can I use a third-party lock screen app without losing my current security settings?
Yes, most third-party lock screen apps work alongside your existing PIN, pattern, or password. The app becomes the visual interface, but your device’s security unlock method still applies when you swipe or tap to unlock.
Why doesn’t my lock screen wallpaper show on the always-on display?
Not all Android phones support showing the lock screen wallpaper on the always-on display. On Pixel phones, you must enable “Show lock screen wallpaper” in Settings under Display & touch > Always-on display. On other devices, this feature may not be available at all.
Will changing the lock screen wallpaper affect my home screen wallpaper?
Selecting only “Lock screen” leaves your home screen wallpaper unchanged.
