How to Activate and Customize iOS 17/18/26 StandBy Mode

Part 1: What Is the StandBy Mode in iOS 17/18/26

The new StandBy Mode in iOS 17/18/26 brings a dynamic, full-screen experience to your iPhone while it’s charging in landscape orientation. Once activated, StandBy displays glanceable information—like clocks, calendars, smart widgets, and even your favorite photos—transforming your iPhone into a sleek, personalized smart display.

Perfect for nightstands, desks, or countertops, iOS 17/18/26 StandBy Mode offers both functionality and style. It’s especially useful on models like the iPhone 14 Pro or newer, where the always-on display keeps your information visible at all times without waking the device.

But don't worry, though. iOS 17/18/26 StandBy mode-supported devices also include iPhone SE, iPhone X series, iPhone 11, and later, as long as it’s eligible for the iOS 17/18/26 update. You can expect to get your hands on this feature in the fall when Apple officially releases iOS 17/18/26. But if you're using the public beta software, you can try it out right now.

Part 2: Benefits of iOS 17/18/26 StandBy Mode

iOS 17/18/26 StandBy Mode brings several benefits to your iPhone charging experience:

• Enhanced Charging Experience

iOS 17/18/26 StandBy Mode provides a visually engaging and informative screen while charging your iPhone. This makes the charging process more practical.

• Glanceable Information

The full-screen display offers easily readable information from a distance, allowing you to quickly check notifications, time, or other important details without picking up your phone. It can also serve as a convenient bedside clock.

• Customizable

StandBy mode iOS 17/18/26 allows customization. Therefore, you have the option to tailor the information displayed on the StandBy screen to suit your preferences and make it more personal.

Part 3: How to Enable and Customize StandBy Mode in iOS 17/18/26

StandBy mode is active by default in iOS 17/18/26, at least in the public beta version. But in case you find that the feature is not enabled or you wish to activate it manually, follow these steps.

How to activate standby mode iOS 17/18/26:

• Step 1: Open your iPhone Settings.
• Step 2: Scroll down and locate the StandBy settings.
• Step 3: Toggle the activation switch to turn on StandBy mode.

Given that StandBy mode works when your iPhone is charging and placed horizontally, you can use different charging methods and keep your iPhone in a horizontal orientation. This includes using a MagSafe charging dock, a standard Qi-enabled wireless charging pad, or a standard lightning cable.

By default, when you enable the StandBy mode iOS 17/18/26, it mode will display featured photos and memories from your photo library or a clock, but you can customize it to your liking.

How to customize StandBy mode:

If you swipe sideways on a docked iPhone, you will be able to cycle between three StandBy mode panels.

• Interactive widgets

The first panel features two columns of interactive widgets, similar to those on the iPhone home screen. You can customize this panel by tapping and holding to add or remove widgets, rearrange them, and enable Smart Rotate and Widget Suggestions for a personalized experience.

• Photo and clocks

The second panel is a photo clock that shows the time and your choice of photo albums or categories (e.g., pets, nature, people). Long-press on a photo to switch between themes. You can also add specific albums to be displayed using the "+" button and hide themes you don't like using the eye icon.

• Large clock

The third panel displays a larger clock. Press and hold the screen, then tap the white button that appears in the bottom right corner. This will reveal different color options for the interface. Customize the Clock Style to your preferences and confirm the changes by tapping 'Done' after tapping the 'X' icon.

Part 4: Tips for Making the Most of iOS 17/18/26 StandBy Mode

Every journey begins with a first step. If you're uncertain about how to use StandBy Mode in iOS 17/18/26, here are some valuable tips to get you started:

1) Notifications and alerts

If you want to allow messages and alerts to appear when your iPhone is docked, make sure to turn on "Show Notifications" in your StandBy settings. For added privacy, you can enable "Show Preview on Tap Only." It will require Touch ID or Face ID to see the full notification.

2) Location Awareness

StandBy mode has a cool feature you may not be aware of - location awareness. If you have different MagSafe accessories for various locations (like your desk, bedside, or kitchen), your iPhone will automatically adapt to the StandBy mode configuration you've defined for each location.

3) Interacting with widgets

Many widgets in StandBy mode can be interacted with. For example, you can check off tasks in your Reminders list right from the widget.

Bonus: Troubleshooting StandBy Mode in iOS 17/18/26 Not Working

Is your iOS 17/18/26 StandBy mode not functioning correctly? Occasionally, your device may encounter system glitches that impede a successful update. As a result, it can potentially lead to malfunctions in certain functions or features.

If you're experiencing glitches with iOS 17/18/26 StandBy Mode, Wondershare Dr.Fone - System Repair (iOS) can help. Fully compatible with iOS 17/18/26, this tool performs an in-depth scan to detect system errors affecting features like StandBy Mode.

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• Work for all iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch, running on all iOS versions

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How to troubleshoot and fix the issue with StandBy mode iOS 17/18/26:

• Step 1: Launch the Dr.Fone iOS System Repair Tool

Start by downloading and installing the Wondershare Dr.Fone software onto your computer. After installation, open the software and go to the "System Repair" section > "iOS System Repair."

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• Step 2: Opt for "Standard Repair" mode

Within Dr.Fone, pick the "Standard Repair" mode. This choice ensures a safe repair procedure without risking any of your iPhone's data.

• Step 3: Activate recovery mode

Follow the instructions in Dr.Fone to activate Recovery Mode for your iPhone. This step is essential for an effective repair.

• Step 4: Identify your iPhone

While your iPhone is in Recovery Mode, Dr.Fone will identify your iPhone’s model and current iOS version. Next, it will download the appropriate iOS firmware customized to your iPhone's specifications.

• Step 5: Begin the iOS system repair

After the firmware has been successfully downloaded via Dr.Fone, click on "Repair Now" to initiate the iOS system repair process.

The Best Solution for iOS 17/18/26 Issues

Tips: Dr.Fone - System Repair now enables zero-data-loss solutions for iOS 17/18/26 crashes (boot loops/black screen/failed updates) and one-click downgrades to signed versions (e.g. iOS 18.5), completing in 10 minutes. Supports all iPhone models, bypassing iTunes factory reset risks. Downgrades require open Apple signing windows (real-time tool verification). Pre-export critical data when reverting from iOS 17/18/26.

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Conclusion

You’re now ready to explore the benefits of iOS 17/18/26 StandBy Mode—a smart, customizable display feature that activates when your iPhone is charging in landscape mode. Whether you want a sleek bedside clock, photo slideshow, or quick-glance widgets, StandBy Mode enhances how your iPhone works while docked. Try it out and see how this powerful iOS 17/18/26 feature can make your daily routine more efficient and visually engaging.

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