Apple's Always On Display: A Controversial Update?
Apple has made a subtle yet significant tweak to its beloved Always On Display feature on iPhone 14 Pro, and it's dividing opinions.
The Always On Display feature has been a staple for iPhone users since its introduction, offering a convenient way to quickly glance at essential information without fully unlocking your device. However, with the release of iOS 26, Apple has quietly implemented a change that might not sit well with everyone.
The Always On Display Modes: A Balancing Act
In iOS 26, Apple has opted to blur your Lock Screen wallpaper by default when the display is dimmed. This tweak aims to enhance readability, making the clock and widgets more prominent. However, it also takes away the very essence of displaying a personalized photo, which many users love about this feature.
Previously, in iOS 18, the Always On Display worked similarly. Your Lock Screen would remain visible in a dimmed state, providing quick access to vital information. The screen would turn off only under specific conditions, such as when your iPhone was face down, in CarPlay, or in Low Power Mode.
Customization: A Limited Yet Useful Feature
Apple has always offered limited customization options for the Always On Display. You could choose whether your wallpaper appeared at all and whether notifications were shown. This allowed users to strike a balance between a clean, utility-focused screen and a personalized setup.
iOS 26: A Big Change, A Big Debate
With iOS 26, Apple has made a bold move by blurring wallpapers by default. While this improves legibility, it also alters the visual appeal of your Lock Screen. For some, like me, it might be preferable to have no wallpaper at all rather than a blurred version.
The Good News: Control is Yours
Fortunately, Apple has added a toggle in the settings, allowing you to disable blurred wallpapers and restore the original, clear Lock Screen. You can find this setting in Settings > Display & Brightness > Always On Display.
The Verdict: Your Choice, Your Experience
So, which behavior do you prefer? Is blurring a necessary privacy and sensitivity measure, or does it detract from the purpose of the feature? Share your thoughts in the comments! Apple's decision has sparked a debate, and we'd love to hear your take on it.
