The Apple iPhone 15 series will come with a variety of new software features, including iOS 17 StandBy mode, which allows users to turn their iPhone into a smart display.

iOS 17 Feature Allows iPhone 15 Pro to Function as a Smart Display

Adarsh V.KSeptember 4, 23 Apple, iPhone, iPhone 14

Apple’s iPhone 15 series is set to launch later this month on September 12 during its Wanderlust event, alongside the new Apple Watch Series 9, the second-generation Apple Watch Ultra, and possibly the new AirPods Pro with USB-C charging case. Despite the numerous leaks we’ve spotted – from the exterior to the new A17 Bionic chipset – one aspect people aren’t discussing is iOS 17 and its new features like StandBy.

First revealed during the WWDC 2023 keynote, StandBy on iPhone allows your device to act as a smart display when placed horizontally while charging. It provides “peek data” that can be easily seen from a distance when the iPhone is charging horizontally.

It remains to be seen whether the always-on display is exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro models or also available to the regular iPhone 15 models. Currently, it is limited to iPhone 14 Pro models. On other iPhone models, you have to tap the screen manually to see the information. On the other hand, in iPhone 14 Pro and probably iPhone 15 Pro models, the StandBy screen is activated automatically and remains on during charging.

To use this feature:

If you’re going to buy one of the iPhone 15 models, you don’t have to do much other than lay it on its side while charging to activate it. However, if you’re currently using the iPhone 14 series, you’ll need to update your device to the public/developer beta of iOS 17 or simply wait for the stable release, which is expected later this month.

Once it’s ready, users simply need to lay their iPhone horizontally while it charges on a compatible wireless charger (which may work best with MagSafe-compatible units), a kickstand, or any stable surface.

iPhone 15 Pro: smart screen?

While this feature is still in its early stages, users can choose from several StandBy modes, including widgets, photos, and clocks. Each mode displays different information. For example, in clock mode, you can choose from analog, digital, world, floating and sundial styles.