It took me 8 months to try out this fantastic iOS 17 feature
iOS 17's StandBy Mode: Gimmick or Game-Changer?
After eight months, the author finally explored the StandBy mode feature in iOS 17, which transforms the iPhone into a simple smart display while charging. This mode displays time, photos, or widgets in landscape, ideal for bedside or desk use. The feature requires specific hardware conditions like a charging stand to activate automatically.
The Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station enabled the author's first experience with StandBy mode. This compact, silent charger supports the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods, and is travel-friendly. Using StandBy mode, the author now relies on Siri for smart home tasks, reducing the need for other smart home devices.
What is StandBy mode and how was it introduced in iOS 17?
StandBy mode is a feature introduced in iOS 17 that transforms an iPhone into a basic smart display when it is charging4. It was officially launched in September 2023 following its preview at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June 2023. This mode displays time, photos, or various widgets in landscape orientation, making it suitable for use on a bedside or office desk5. StandBy mode can also be enhanced with certain apps, activating automatically under the right conditions—when the iPhone is placed on a charging stand in landscape orientation and locked5. If in a dark environment, the display even glows red, similar to the Night Mode on the Apple Watch Ultra 2's Wayfinder and Modular Ultra watch faces6.
How does StandBy mode transform an iPhone when it is charging?
StandBy mode is a feature introduced in iOS 17 that transforms an iPhone into a smart display when it is charging. When activated, StandBy mode displays the time, photos, or various widgets in landscape orientation, making it suitable for use on a bedside table or an office desk. The mode automatically activates when the phone is placed on a charging stand in an upright and angled landscape position, and the phone is locked. If the surrounding environment is dark, the display glows red to reduce disturbance. This feature provides a convenient way to use the iPhone as a clock, photo frame, or information display while it is charging.