Previously, Apple has had everything locked down. They aren’t known for being open to third party apps having full access to their products, and tend to gatekeep. However, this time, platforms like Spotify will be able to display animated artwork while iPhones are locked.
With the new iPhone iOS 26 update, users will notice a new layout when their phone is locked. While playing music with a locked phone, you might notice artwork start to move. This is because animated artwork can now be displayed full-screen.
Playback controls will be shown resting against a platter of liquid glass. The design has been tested out on Apple Music, however, it’s been decided Apple won’t restrict this feature. Normally, the best iPhone features are reserved for the brand themselves.
Much to the dislike of rivals over at Spotify. Apple previously found themselves in disputes with the likes of Spotify due to their restrictions. They are known to make processes difficult, expensive or just outright inaccessible, all in the aim to convert listeners to their own music platform.
This time around, the API has been opened out to other platforms, so developers can adopt this cool update. The API is called MPMediaItemAnimatedArtwork, and can be tested via the developer SDK.
The feature hasn’t yet been released to the public as we are still waiting for iOS 26 for third-party iPhone apps, however, they have promised it’s on its way. Spotify haven’t yet disclosed whether they will opt into this feature.
