What is iOS 18 StandBy Mode?

iOS 18 StandBy Mode is a new feature introduced in iOS 18 that transforms your iPhone into a smart display when it's charging and positioned horizontally. It displays information like time, weather, notifications, and more in a larger, easier-to-read format. While the basic functionality is intuitive, there are numerous hidden settings that can unlock its full potential.

How to Enable iOS 18 StandBy Mode

Before diving into the hidden settings, make sure you have StandBy Mode enabled on your iPhone. Here's how to do it:

  1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone
  2. Scroll down and tap Display & Brightness
  3. Tap StandBy
  4. Toggle the switch next to StandBy to enable it
  5. Connect your iPhone to a charger and position it horizontally

Top iOS 18 StandBy Mode Hidden Settings You Need to Know

1. Customize the Clock Face Layout

One of the most useful hidden settings in iOS 18 StandBy Mode is the ability to customize the clock face layout. By default, StandBy Mode displays a large analog or digital clock, but you can change this to show more information:

  • Swipe left/right on the clock face to cycle through different layouts
  • Long press on the clock face to enter edit mode
  • In edit mode, you can add or remove widgets, change the clock style, and adjust the layout
Customize iOS 18 StandBy Mode Clock Face Layout

2. Enable Always-On Display for StandBy Mode

If you have an iPhone 14 Pro or later, you can enable Always-On Display specifically for StandBy Mode. This allows your iPhone to show the StandBy display even when you're not actively using it:

  1. Go to Settings > Display & Brightness > StandBy
  2. Toggle on Always On
  3. You can also adjust the brightness level for Always-On Display here

3. Add Custom Widgets to StandBy Mode

iOS 18 StandBy Mode allows you to add custom widgets to personalize your experience. Here's how to add widgets:

  1. Enter StandBy Mode by connecting your iPhone to a charger and positioning it horizontally
  2. Swipe to a blank page or an existing page with widgets
  3. Long press on the screen to enter edit mode
  4. Tap the + button in the top-left corner
  5. Browse available widgets and tap the ones you want to add
  6. Drag and drop the widgets to rearrange them

Some of the best widgets to add to StandBy Mode include:

  • Weather forecast
  • Calendar events
  • Reminders
  • Stock quotes
  • Music player
  • Smart Home controls

4. Customize Notification Display in StandBy Mode

You can also customize how notifications appear in iOS 18 StandBy Mode. This is a great way to ensure you only see the most important information:

  1. Go to Settings > Display & Brightness > StandBy
  2. Tap Notifications
  3. Choose between Show All Notifications or Hide Sensitive Notifications
  4. You can also toggle Show App Icons to include or exclude app icons with notifications

5. Use StandBy Mode with MagSafe Chargers

For the best StandBy Mode experience, use it with MagSafe chargers. This allows you to position your iPhone perfectly for optimal viewing:

  • MagSafe chargers hold your iPhone in the ideal horizontal position
  • Some MagSafe chargers even allow you to adjust the angle for better visibility
  • MagSafe charging is faster and more efficient than regular wireless charging
Use iOS 18 StandBy Mode with MagSafe Chargers

Advanced Tips for iOS 18 StandBy Mode

1. Create Multiple StandBy Mode Pages

You can create multiple pages in StandBy Mode, each with different widgets and layouts. This allows you to switch between different information sets depending on your needs:

  1. Enter StandBy Mode
  2. Swipe left or right to navigate between pages
  3. To add a new page, swipe to the last page and tap the + button
  4. Customize each page with different widgets and layouts

2. Use StandBy Mode for Nightstand Mode

StandBy Mode is perfect for use as a nightstand clock. Here's how to optimize it for this purpose:

  • Choose a dark clock face to reduce eye strain
  • Enable Night Shift in Settings > Display & Brightness
  • Adjust the brightness to a low level
  • Enable Do Not Disturb to avoid notification interruptions

3. Integrate StandBy Mode with iOS 18 Focus Mode

StandBy Mode works seamlessly with iOS 18 Focus Mode hidden rules for work & personal use. You can customize StandBy Mode to show different information depending on your current Focus Mode:

  1. Open the Settings app
  2. Tap Focus and select a Focus Mode
  3. Scroll down and tap StandBy
  4. Customize the widgets and layout for that Focus Mode

For example, you could set up Work Focus to show calendar events and reminders, while Personal Focus shows photos and music controls.