With iOS 26, Apple has enhanced the iPhone Lock Screen to offer unprecedented levels of customization. Although changes may occur before the official release, here are five notable features currently available in the developer beta. One of the most significant updates is widget flexibility. In previous versions, widgets were fixed right below the clock.
Now, with the new Customize mode in iOS 26, users can reposition them to the bottom of the Lock Screen, allowing for easier one-handed access, especially when quick actions are present. Additionally, Apple has made it possible to enlarge the time display. Users can drag the clock’s size to fill more of the screen for better visibility. This feature, accessible with a simple handle in Customize mode, allows the time to occupy half the screen.
Notably, if depth effects are applied to a background photo, the time adjusts itself to fit seamlessly with the image. iOS 26 also streamlines photo selections on the Lock Screen. Users can now tap a mini version of the currently displayed photo to quickly view it in the library, or they can select a new image with the familiar Choose Photo option. For users with iPhone 15 Pro and newer models, iOS 26 introduces Spatial Scenes.
This feature converts standard images into 3D visuals that animate as users move their devices, bringing a new dimension to viewing photos. Finally, the update enhances the music experience through full-screen animated album art on the Lock Screen. Tapping the album art enlarges and animates it, resulting in a more engaging listening experience. This feature is also set to extend to third-party apps like Spotify and YouTube Music, promising an exciting expansion of functionalities in the near future.
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