Microsoft releases custom lockscreen for Android

Microsoft has released a new app for Android phones called Next Lock Screen. The modified lockscreen is a result of the so-called Garage Project of Microsoft, in which developers of the company develop programs in their free time.

Next Lock Screen gives the user of an Android smartphone direct access to, for example, the calendar, a missed call, e-mail or text messages without having to unlock the device. According to Microsoft, a conference call can also be started quickly from the lockscreen. The condition is that the conference call has been scheduled in the calendar, but Next Lock Screen will then automatically enter the necessary PIN code to participate in the group conversation.

According to the software giant, the app could increase user productivity. Next Lock Screen is part of Microsoft’s Garage Project. Employees of the company are given the opportunity to present self-developed software. The software is made in the free time they are allocated within the company. It is striking that Microsoft allows numerous operating systems, including Google Android, as well as cross-platform software.

The Garage Project was set up to respond to the ‘culture change’ at the software company. Last summer, CEO Nadella already indicated that he wants to shake up the corporate culture at Microsoft. This means, among other things, that there should be more room for ‘experiments’.