With lock screen widgets having been introduced in Android 4.2, developers have been looking for ways to take advantage of the new feature in creative ways. Earlier this week a developer e-mailed me with an introduction to his app, Shipoopi, which allows Android users to add a shortcut to any app to the lock screen of a device.
Admittedly, the name of his app, Shipoopi, has nothing to do with what the app actual does, according to Jonathan Dharmaraj, the developer. The simple app, with a name inspired by a "Family Guy" episode (where Peter sings the famous "The Music Man" song), was made to help him win back the heart of a former girlfriend. Creating an app is a unique way of getting her attention, and hopefully everything works out in the end for Dharmaraj and his "Shipoopi."
Shipoopi is simple to use, allowing you to place a widget on your lock screen, complete with time, date, and shortcuts to your favorite apps.
Download the free app from Google Play, add it to your lock screen, and then tap on the time to view the widget's settings. In the settings you can change the time format, theme, and add apps from a list.
The next time your device locks and you want to access one of the apps, just tap on it, enter your passcode (if you have one set), and the app will launch. It saves you a few seconds each time you unlock your phone -- something I'm sure we can all appreciate.