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Apple\u2019s Always On Display has been fairly consistent since it debuted on iPhone 14 Pro. With iOS 26, Apple quietly changed how it works in a way that may not be obvious.<\/p>\n
Always On Display modes<\/p>\n
Instead of simply dimming your Lock Screen wallpaper, the system blurs it by default in iOS 26.<\/p>\n
The tweak makes the clock and widgets stand out more, but it also defeats the purpose of displaying a photo if that\u2019s what you like about the feature.<\/p>\n
Luckily, there\u2019s also a toggle to bring back the original behavior.<\/p>\n
In iOS 18, the Always On Display worked much like it works in iOS 26. A dimmed version of your Lock Screen stays visible when your iPhone is locked, giving you quick access to essentials like the clock, date, notifications, and widgets.<\/p>\n
The screen will turn off entirely when face down, covered, in CarPlay, using Continuity Camera, in Low Power Mode, while Sleep Focus is on, or at bedtime.<\/p>\n
Customization has always been limited but useful. You can decide whether the wallpaper appears at all and whether notifications are shown.<\/p>\n
This means your always on screen can be clean and utility-driven, or retain the personality of your wallpaper and lock screen setup.<\/p>\n
iOS 26 makes one big change<\/p>\n
With iOS 26, wallpapers are blurred by default when the display is dimmed. The effect likely improves legibility, but it changes the look of the Lock Screen.<\/p>\n
For me, I think I\u2019d rather not show any wallpaper than be presented with a blurred version of my Lock Screen image.<\/p>\n
Fortunately, Apple added a toggle alongside the behavior change to give you control.<\/p>\n
In Settings > Display & Brightness > Always On Display, you can disable blurred wallpapers so your Lock Screen appears in full clarity like before.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/IMG_0379.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Which behavior do you prefer? Is blurring better for privacy and sensitivity, or does it defeat the purpose for you?<\/p>\n
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