In iOS and iPadOS 15, Apple is adding a new feature to WidgetKit, introduced last year, which will allow developers to classify sensitive information in their widgets, meaning specific information can only be viewed on the lock screen.
iOS 14 introduced completely redesigned widgets for the lock screen and home screen. While there are no major changes to WidgetKit this year, the new password-protected feature could be welcomed by applications that feature widgets with sensitive information, such as health and banking information. You can access the widgets on the lock screen by swiping left to Today view.
Related to widgets in iOS 15 is a new feature for Smart Stacks. Smart Stacks allows users to stack several widgets on top of each other and allows iOS to determine which widget is most relevant to display based on factors such as time of day, location, and more.
In iOS 15, the system can now automatically add widgets to the Smart Stacks it deems relevant. The feature called Widget Tips is a new way for users to discover widgets they may not know existed. Developers interested in learning more about the changes in iOS 15 can check out this WWDC session.
