Google's Android operating system has a lot going for it, but none of them are as central to the Android experience as its customization options. It's up to users to decide how their Android smartphone looks. Smartly, Moto doesn't interfere with this choice. You decide how your Moto Z looks. You can opt for full control via launchers or you can just change the Moto Z wallpaper and lock screen message. It's really easy to do.
The Moto Z doesn't use any special software or comes with a skin that runs on Google's operating system. Instead, software customizations chosen by Moto are built into the phone and updated through apps. Changing the Moto Z wallpaper works the same as on other mostly clean Android devices. As for the lock screen message, you'll want to add one to give you a chance to get your device back if you ever lose it.
Here's how to change the Moto Z wallpaper and lock screen message.
How to Change the Moto Z Lock Screen Message
Let's start by changing the Moto Z lock screen message. Again, having a decent lock screen message with an emergency contact could be the key to getting your phone back if it gets lost. As this message can be anything, you don't have to use it for this purpose. You can add a funny quote or message that makes you smile every time you see it.
Go to the Settings app on your Moto Z. To do this, swipe down from the top edge of your Moto Z screen to reveal the notifications shade area. Tap the gray part of the notification shade to show quick access to settings. Now tap on the Settings cog in the top right corner of your screen.
Welcome to the Settings app. Do not scroll down or select a category. Instead, tap the search button in the top right corner of the Settings app and enter "lock screen". Tap "choose screen lock".
Now press . It's the fourth item from the top in the screenshot below.
Type your new Moto Z lock screen message and press From then on, anything you entered in the field will appear on your phone when it's locked. This is true regardless of the security method you use on your device.
How to change the Moto Z wallpaper
Your Moto Z wallpaper cannot be changed directly from the Settings app. Wallpapers are part of the launcher you use. Again, the Moto Z uses Google Now Launcher. This keeps your device clean and allows them to provide updates quickly.
It also means you'll likely find the process of changing your Moto Z wallpaper familiar. Unlock your Moto Z.
Now place your finger on the home screen wherever there is no app icon yet. Do not move your finger until you feel your Moto Z vibrate in your hands.
You should now have a magnified view of your default home screen and any additional home screens you've added. This is the home screen customization area. Tap the option on the far left of your screen.
Use the first button on the left to explore photos you've taken yourself. The two Moto Z wallpapers that Moto has added to Android run on the right side of the screen. All the default wallpapers included with the version of Android installed on your Moto Z can be found to the right of these two wallpapers. If you continue to flick the images to the left, you will come across Android live wallpapers. Live wallpapers are animated. They change depending on the entry and movement of the phone.
Note that you don't have to rely on photos you've taken or wallpapers already loaded on your device. Head over to the Google Play Store for apps that will give you even more wallpapers. You can also download images from your favorite websites by accessing and saving them through Google Chrome. Hold your finger on any image you want to save while browsing the web. For the best experience, you'll want a decent sized photo. The Moto Z's 5.5-inch Quad HD display is capable of displaying plenty of detail.
Once you've chosen a wallpaper, tap in the top left corner of your screen.
Now, whatever you chose will appear behind your app shortcuts, Google bar, and widgets in the home area. Since Google Now Launcher doesn't have separate settings for lock screen wallpaper and home screen wallpaper, you should also see the background you chose when your Moto Z is locked.
Good luck with your Moto Z.