Apple’s Always On Display, introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro, has seen some changes in iOS 26. One significant update is how the display shows your Lock Screen wallpaper.
Now, when your Always On Display is activated, the wallpaper gets blurred by default. This change highlights the clock and widgets, making them easier to read. However, if you love the look of your photos, this blurring might feel like a loss. Thankfully, there’s a simple setting that allows you to revert to the original dimmed appearance.
Before iOS 26, the Always On Display showed a darker version of your Lock Screen. It was a convenient way to keep track of time, date, and notifications without fully waking your phone. The screen would turn off under certain conditions, like when lying face down or in low power mode.
With the new blurring feature, Apple seems to prioritize readability. In fact, recent user feedback indicates mixed reactions. Some find the blurred look more modern, while others miss seeing their actual wallpaper. In a large survey conducted by TechRadar, 55% of users preferred seeing a clear wallpaper, while 45% liked the blurred version.
To switch back to the original mode, go to Settings > Display & Brightness > Always On Display. You can choose whether to have a blurred wallpaper or keep your image sharp.
Ultimately, this update highlights Apple’s focus on user choice. It’s always interesting to see how user preferences shape tech features. So, which mode do you prefer? Does the blurring enhance your experience, or do you miss the clarity?
For more on Apple’s latest updates, check out Apple’s official page.
