For years, locking an iPhone meant the screen went completely black. With the introduction of the iPhone 14 Pro and newer Pro models, Apple introduced the “Always-On Display.” This feature allows the screen to dynamically dim itself while remaining technically powered on, allowing you to glance at the time, your widgets, and incoming notifications without ever touching the device.
While some users love this feature, many find it incredibly distracting. A phone screen that is constantly glowing on your desk can make you feel anxious, as it constantly looks like the phone is actively receiving a new text message. Furthermore, completely disabling the Always-On Display is one of the easiest ways to squeeze extra battery life out of your device.
How to Disable the Always-On Display
Apple allows you to completely disable this feature, forcing your modern iPhone to behave exactly like older models—the screen will turn completely, undeniably black when you press the lock button.
- Unlock your iPhone and open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap on Display & Brightness.
- Scroll down until you find the Always On Display menu and tap on it.
- At the top of the screen, you will see the master toggle switch labelled Always On Display.
- Tap the switch so it turns grey (Off).
The change is instantaneous. You can press the physical lock button on the right side of your phone to test it. The screen will immediately shut off completely.
How to Customize (Instead of Disabling)
If you like the idea of seeing the time without touching your phone, but you hate that the Always-On Display leaves your brightly colored wallpaper visible in the background, you do not have to turn the feature completely off. You can simply customize it.
Inside the exact same “Always On Display” menu (assuming the master switch is left ON), you will see two additional options:
- Show Wallpaper: If you turn this OFF, the screen will remain purely black when locked, but the white text of your clock and your widgets will remain visible. This makes the Always-On Display look much more subtle and professional, similar to an Android device.
- Show Notifications: If you turn this OFF, incoming text messages and app alerts will not wake the screen or display text while the phone is sitting on your desk, protecting your privacy from anyone walking past.
When Does the Screen Turn Off Automatically?
Even if you leave the Always-On Display fully enabled, Apple designed the system to be smart. To prevent severe battery drain, the iPhone will automatically turn the screen completely off under specific conditions.
The screen will go completely black if you put the iPhone face-down on a table, put it in your pocket or a dark bag, or if you turn on “Low Power Mode.” Additionally, if you are wearing an Apple Watch and you physically walk away from the room, the iPhone detects that you have left and turns the screen off until you return.