Microsoft brings some cool new stuff to its Next lock screen as part of a major update.
The recent update, which comes in version 2.6, brings some new geo-sensitive features as well as fixes for some known bugs.
Android users will now be able to customize their wallpapers according to their location. With the update, they can now choose various wallpapers for Auto, Home or Work. Users will be walked through the app in order to access the feature. This means they should turn off their device's default lock screen beforehand in order to avoid unlocking it two times.
Users can notify Next about their home and work location details in order for the app to manage various unlock rules that would match their whereabouts. Of course, this will work based on a phone's fingerprint unlock feature. It also supports PIN and pattern unlock.
Another feature brought by the update is the Smart Contacts, which is designed to learn the user's recently called or texted contacts. These contacts are displayed on the lock screen to make it easier for the user to access them.
The update also comes with a Smart Lock feature that allows users to set their own rules on whether or not they need a passcode when they are at Home or at Work.
Launched in October 2014, the Next lock screen app retains some of the previous features that Android users have enjoyed in the past version. These include App shortcuts, Weather, Music Controls, Calendar, flashlight, quick access to the camera, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, among others.
Next lock screen is part of the Microsoft Garage project. Google Play Store says it is "the ultimate lock screen for busy professionals. Next helps protect your phone from unwanted access by others, and you are instantly more productive. It is an excellent productivity locker app and companion for everyday life."
The Next app also offers a beta option that users can sign up for if they wish to have a first taste of the app's latest features. However, users should also be prepared for some minor bugs that are normally expected from a beta release.
The updated version has a size of 6.3 MB and would require devices that come with Android 4.1 and higher. It is currently being rolled out in the Google Play Store.
