iOS 26 Lock Screen Features: Everything You Need to Know
Thinking about updating your iPhone to the latest iOS 26 public beta? You're probably wondering what’s new—especially when it comes to the Lock Screen, one of the most personalized and frequently viewed parts of your device. Apple’s latest update brings subtle but powerful changes that improve functionality, customization, and accessibility. From moving widgets around to increasing the size of the clock, iOS 26 reimagines how your Lock Screen looks and works. Whether you're already using the public beta or considering it, this guide will walk you through the top iOS 26 Lock Screen features you can try right now.
Customize Your Lock Screen Widgets in iOS 26
The ability to personalize widgets on the Lock Screen is no longer limited to a fixed layout. In iOS 26, Apple finally gives you control over widget positioning—a long-requested feature by iPhone users. While iOS 18 locked the widgets directly below the clock, iOS 26 lets you place them either at the top or bottom of the screen. This makes one-handed operation significantly more convenient, especially on larger devices like the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
To try it, long-press your Lock Screen, tap Customize, and then drag your widgets into the desired spot. The interface now offers a smoother drag-and-drop experience with clear visual cues to snap widgets into position. You can arrange up to four small widgets, or a mix of medium and small ones, and place them right above the quick action buttons. It's a simple change, but one that makes a big difference in usability.
This improvement supports better ergonomics and gives users the power to prioritize what’s most important at a glance. Whether it’s your calendar, battery percentage, or the weather, you can now ensure your key data is just where you want it—top or bottom.
Make the Time Pop with a Bigger Clock on iOS 26 Lock Screen
Another noticeable update on the iOS 26 Lock Screen is the option to make the clock larger. By default, iPhones display the time in a modest size centered on the screen. But now, you can increase the clock’s footprint using a new drag handle. Just enter Customize mode, tap on the time, and use the drag handle located at the bottom-right corner of the selection box to enlarge it.
This tweak is particularly helpful for users with vision impairments or for anyone who prefers a bold, statement-like appearance for their Lock Screen. Larger fonts also make the screen easier to check at a glance—whether you’re working out, driving, or simply want a clean look.
In addition, the change doesn’t interfere with the rest of your Lock Screen layout. Your widgets, notifications, and background image still fit nicely, adapting in real time to the resized time element. Apple continues to balance style with usability in iOS 26, and this enhanced clock size feature is a great example of that philosophy in action.
How to Install the iOS 26 Public Beta and Try New Lock Screen Features
If you’re ready to test out these Lock Screen enhancements for yourself, getting the iOS 26 public beta on your iPhone is relatively straightforward. Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update. Then tap Beta Updates and select iOS 26 Public Beta from the list. Return to the previous screen, and you'll see the update appear. Tap Update Now to begin the installation.
As always, it’s a good idea to back up your data before installing any beta software. Beta versions may contain bugs or incomplete features, so make sure you’re comfortable with potential stability issues. Apple typically releases several public beta updates before the final version, so the Lock Screen features you're seeing now could receive additional polish or changes before the official rollout in the fall.
By joining the beta program, you not only get early access to these features but also have the opportunity to provide feedback directly to Apple. That feedback can shape the final experience for millions of users worldwide. It’s a win-win if you enjoy being at the cutting edge of iOS development.
Is iOS 26 Lock Screen Customization Worth It?
The iOS 26 Lock Screen isn’t a total overhaul, but its small refinements show Apple is paying attention to how users actually interact with their devices. Letting users move widgets to the bottom and resize the time display may seem minor, but they go a long way toward improving personalization and accessibility. These changes reflect Apple’s ongoing shift toward giving users more control over their iPhone’s interface without compromising on design simplicity.
Whether you're someone who relies on widgets for quick updates or you just want a cleaner, more readable time display, iOS 26 delivers thoughtful upgrades. And because these are surface-level tweaks, they’re easy to try out and immediately useful. As Apple continues to iterate on iOS based on user feedback, these features also show how the company is blending aesthetic options with real usability enhancements.
If you're curious about what's next or just want to experience a more flexible Lock Screen today, installing the iOS 26 public beta is a great step. Just remember to share your feedback—after all, this is your chance to help shape the future of iOS.
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