New lock screen clock tweak in Android 16 beta

Google’s latest Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 update brings a cool, hidden feature for customizing the lock screen clock on Pixel devices. This option lets users switch the clock’s font style with a simple tap, making it easy to personalize their phone’s look. In the first Android 16 QPR1 beta, Google added new ways to adjust the lock screen clock through the “Wallpaper & style” app.

This included a slider to change the clock’s appearance, like its size and weight. Now, in Beta 2, a Reddit user named als26 found a hidden trick: tapping the clock preview in the editor switches the font from a smooth “Rounded” style to a sharper, more angular “Sharp” style. A pop-up message confirms the change and offers an undo option.

This feature only works with the default clock, which uses a special “reactive” font that allows these tweaks. Other clock styles don’t support it yet, and it’s unclear if Google will expand this option. The update shows Google’s focus on giving users more control to make their lock screen feel personal. Want to try it? Head to Settings > Wallpaper & style on a Pixel device running Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2. Tap the clock preview to test the new font style. Google might roll this out to more users in future updates, so stay tuned for news.