iPhone Lock Screen to Showcase Animated Artwork
Apple has unveiled the upcoming iOS 26 during the WWDC 2025 event, highlighting several exciting features for iPhone users. Among the most intriguing updates is the introduction of animated artwork on the lock screen, a capability that extends beyond Apple Music to potentially include third-party music streaming applications. This enhancement promises to enrich the user experience by allowing dynamic visuals to accompany audio playback.
Animated Artwork on iPhone Lock Screen
The new iOS 26 Developer Beta 1 update introduces an innovative API known as MPMediaItemAnimatedArtwork. This feature is designed to display animated images, such as album covers or media file artwork, directly on the iPhone’s lock screen. According to reports, the animated artwork consists of two components: an animated video asset and a static preview image that represents the first frame of the animation.
With the MPMediaItemAnimatedArtwork API, applications playing music can send an animated video clip to the system for display on the lock screen. While the video is being loaded, the preview image serves as a temporary placeholder. This approach ensures that users see a visual representation of the currently playing track without delay. Apple emphasizes that both the preview image and the animated video can be fetched separately, allowing for a seamless user experience.
Although specific details about which apps will support this feature are not yet available, speculation suggests that popular platforms like Spotify may take advantage of this new capability. Following the release of the iOS 16 Developer Beta 1 update, Apple has made the API accessible within the developer SDK, enabling third-party developers to integrate this feature into their applications.
Broader Applications for Audiobooks and Podcasts
In addition to music streaming services, the new API opens the door for audiobooks and podcasts to utilize animated artwork on the iPhone’s lock screen. This means that users can expect a more engaging visual experience while enjoying their favorite audiobooks or podcast episodes. The integration of animated visuals is likely to enhance the overall appeal of these audio formats, making them more interactive and visually stimulating.
As developers begin to explore the possibilities offered by the MPMediaItemAnimatedArtwork API, it is anticipated that a variety of applications will emerge, showcasing unique animated artwork tailored to their content. This development aligns with Apple’s ongoing efforts to enhance user engagement and provide a richer multimedia experience across its devices.
The introduction of animated artwork on the lock screen is just one of the many features expected in iOS 26. As Apple continues to innovate and expand the capabilities of its operating system, users can look forward to a more dynamic and visually appealing interface that enhances their interaction with music, audiobooks, and podcasts.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
