People who plug their phones in at night are getting a nice software treat this winter. Apple is taking one of the standout features from its folding device and passing it down to standard models. With the upcoming iOS 27 update, the company is bringing the completely redesigned StandBy mode from the iPhone Duo to millions of other older devices. This change turns your normal handset into a much more capable and customized bedside clock.
The software update adds new clock faces and custom screen options
When the smart display feature first launched a few years ago, it gave users a simple way to look at the time and basic widgets while their iPhone was resting horizontally on a charger. But when the new foldable phone hit the market, it received a much better version of this tool that felt more alive. Now, anyone running the latest iOS 27.3 beta gets to try out these previously exclusive additions.
The update brings a fresh batch of digital and analog clock designs. You can now change their colors and add specific data widgets right on the screen. The company also added brand new faces for checking the weather and looking at your daily calendar events. If you like seeing your pictures on the screen, the Photos view now lets you pull images straight from your Shared Albums.
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One of the best new tricks is the ability to build multiple versions of the same screen layout. You can set up a few different clocks with unique widget combinations and easily swipe through them whenever you want a change. These fresh layout options are not restricted to the most expensive hardware, as they will work on the iPhone 11 and any newer models. The final software version should roll out to everyone this December, giving your idle screen a very welcome visual refresh just in time for the holidays.
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