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Android: Add a Custom Message to the Lock Screen

If you want a short note, emergency contact, or reminder visible without unlocking your phone, Android has a built-in field for that. Most people never find it because it sits several taps deep inside the display settings and is easy to miss during setup.

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Step 1 of 5: Tap on **Settings**

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Tap on Settings

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Android 14 · Android 14
Add a Custom Lock Screen Message – Android 14: step 1 – Tap on Settings
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Android

Add a Custom Lock Screen Message auf Android

Android includes a simple text field that displays a short message directly on the lock screen, above or below the clock depending on your device layout. It is separate from notifications and stays visible even when the screen is otherwise empty.

This feature is often overlooked because it lives inside the lock screen customization menu rather than the main display settings. Many users only discover it by accident while adjusting clock style or wallpaper options.

Where to find it

Go to Tap on SettingsTap on DisplayTap on Lock screenTap on Add text on lock screen. Enter your message and confirm with Enter a Text/Message and tap on Save.

The text is static. It does not update automatically and will not show live information like battery percentage or missed calls. If you need that kind of live data on the lock screen, look at the always-on display or notification settings instead, since this feature only handles fixed text.

Keep in mind that anything you type here is visible to anyone who picks up the phone, even before it is unlocked. Avoid putting sensitive information in the message and stick to something like a return-if-found note or a short reminder.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, a short line with a name and phone number works well for this. Just remember it is visible to anyone who picks up the phone, so avoid adding more personal details than necessary.