Sticky WidgetsPinning a note as a Live Activity requires Premium. A compact accessory widget is a separate system placement, not the large pinned note shown here.
By Tyler Hillsman · Reviewed
How to do it
Create the note you want in view
Write a short note or checklist in Sticky Widgets. Use content you are comfortable displaying while your phone is locked.
Use Pin for a Live Activity
With Premium access, use the note’s Pin action in the app. Allow Live Activities for Sticky Widgets in iPhone settings if the system asks.
Check the actual Lock Screen
Lock and wake the phone to see the pinned presentation. It uses a different layout from the Home Screen widget.
Use the wallpaper editor for an accessory widget
For a compact accessory placement, open the Lock Screen wallpaper customization and its widget area, then choose an available Sticky Widgets accessory widget. This does not create a pinned Live Activity.
Accessory widget or pinned Live Activity?
Accessory widgets occupy the small spaces provided by the Lock Screen wallpaper. Their compact layout is useful for a brief note view, and their presentation follows system constraints.
A pinned note is a Live Activity with room for another kind of note or checklist presentation. It is started from the app’s Pin action and is a Premium feature. The screenshot shows this pinned presentation, not a wallpaper accessory slot.
Pinning does not mean permanent display
The system manages Live Activities. A pinned note can end, be dismissed, or be affected by device settings; the app cannot promise that it will remain on the Lock Screen indefinitely.
Keep the underlying note in the app. If you need a note visible whenever you visit the Home Screen, also add a regular Home Screen widget. That placement is independent of an individual pinned activity.
Choose a useful, appropriate note
A short shopping list, a departure checklist, or a simple next step can work well on a locked phone. Avoid passwords, access codes, private account details, or content you would not want someone nearby to read.
If pinning is unavailable, check Premium access and Live Activity settings before recreating the note. If an existing pinned note disappears, use the dedicated troubleshooting guide below.
Common questions
Does adding a Lock Screen accessory widget unlock Premium pinning?
No. Accessory placement and Premium Live Activity pinning are separate workflows.
Can I make a note stay pinned forever?
No permanent duration is promised. Live Activity visibility and lifetime are managed by the system.
Does the same note still exist if its activity ends?
The pinned activity is a presentation of a note. Open Sticky Widgets to find the underlying note and check its state.
Need a hand?
Contact Sticky Widgets support with your device, system version, and what happened. Keep private note content out of your message.
For system setup details: Apple’s iPhone widget setup guide.