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All the iPhone Lock Screen Changes You Might Have Missed in iOS 26

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Why This Matters

The iOS 26 update introduces significant customization features for the iPhone lock screen, enhancing user convenience and personalization. These changes reflect Apple's ongoing focus on user experience, potentially influencing competitors and shaping future iOS updates. For consumers, these features offer greater accessibility and aesthetic options, making daily device interactions more tailored and efficient.

Key Takeaways

Apple released iOS 26 in September, and in addition to new features like call screening, the update also brought more customization options to your iPhone's lock screen.

When the tech giant released iOS 18 back in 2024, you were given the ability to remove or change the controls on your lock screen -- a welcome improvement if you've ever accidentally turned on your flashlight while pocketing your phone.

With iOS 26, you can move your lock screen widgets, increase the size of your clock and give your lock screen wallpaper a 3D spatial effect.

Here's how to bring these changes to your lock screen and what to know about each.

Change the size of your lock screen's clock

The biggest change iOS 26 brings to your lock screen is the ability to change the size of your clock. The expanded clock takes up about a third of my iPhone 16 Pro's screen at most, which I love because if I place my phone on a table, I can easily see the time, even without my glasses. But you have to enable what I like to call big clock.

Here's how to expand the clock on your lock screen.

1. Tap Settings.

2. Tap Wallpaper.

3. Tap Customize under the lock screen you want to adjust.

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