iPhone StandBy Mode is a lock screen mode introduced in iOS 17 and later versions that activates when you place your iPhone in a horizontal position while charging. This mode transforms your device into a smart display, providing quick access to information. Especially useful when sleeping at night or charging at your desk, this mode displays items like widgets, photos, and clocks in a large and clear format. Here is what you need to know about iPhone StandBy Mode:
What is iPhone StandBy Mode?
iPhone StandBy Mode is a feature that automatically engages when you place your iPhone in a horizontal position while charging. This mode allows you to use your device similarly to a digital assistant or smart watch display. It consists of three main screens:
- Widget Screen: Displays interactive widgets in a large format (e.g., reminders or weather).
- Photo Screen: Displays selected photos or memories from your albums.
- Clock Screen: Offers time and date information in different themes (such as digital, analog, world clock).
This mode works more efficiently with the “Always-on Display” feature, especially on iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro models.
How to Turn On iPhone StandBy Mode?
Follow the steps below to enable StandBy Mode:
- Charging and Positioning: Connect your iPhone to a MagSafe, wireless (Qi), or Lightning charger. The device must be locked and in a horizontal (landscape) position. Using a slightly angled charging stand is ideal rather than a flat surface.
- Enabling in Settings:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on “StandBy”.
- Toggle the “StandBy” switch to the green (ON) position.
- Automatic Switch: The mode starts automatically when the conditions above are met.
Night Mode reduces eye strain by turning the screen to a red tint when the environment is dark. You can turn this feature off by following the path Settings > StandBy > Display > Night Mode.
How to Keep iPhone StandBy Mode Always On?
To keep the mode continuously on, check the following:
Display Settings
Go to Settings > StandBy > Display. Set the “Turn Display Off” option to “Never”.
Low Power Mode
Settings > Battery > Low Power Mode must be turned off. Otherwise, the screen will turn off after a short time.
Always-on Display
On iPhone 14 Pro/15 Pro/16 Pro models, this feature works by default. On other models, the screen may time out.
Extra Tip: You can prevent the screen from turning on unnecessarily during the night by turning off the motion to wake feature (Settings > StandBy > Display > Motion to Wake).
iPhone StandBy Mode Not Working, What is the Solution?
If you are experiencing issues, try the following steps:
Basic Checks
- Make sure your iPhone is running iOS 17 or a later version.
- Check that the charger is working and the device is locked.
- Check that the device is in a completely horizontal position and not on a flat surface.
Verifying Settings
Confirm that the mode is ON via Settings > StandBy.
Battery and Power
Turn off Low Power Mode. Low battery health can also cause issues.
Model Compatibility
On models without the Always-on Display feature, the screen will eventually time out.
Restarting
Try restarting your iPhone.
MagSafe chargers ensure the mode works more consistently. If you are having trouble with standard wired charging, try using a different charger or a wireless charging stand.