Since iOS 26, Apple has chosen to fade the background of the access screen as standard when the always-on-screen is active. This means that photos are blurred when your iPhone is in standby mode. Fortunately you can adjust this behavior.
The always-on-screen on the iPhone shows continuously dimmed information such as the time, date, notifications and widgets, so that you can see them quickly without activating the screen. This function saves energy thanks to smart options and by having the screen work with a low refresh speed. That is why the Always-on display can only be found on the Pro models since the iPhone 14 Pro (Max).
Background faded since iOS 26
Are you in possession of an iPhone Pro with an always-on-screen? Then there is a chance that the background of the access screen is automatically blurred when the device is placed in standby mode.
The always-on-screen ensures that not only the screen is dimmed, but also the photo or background is blurred.
Access screen blurry for always-to-screen
With iOS 26, backgrounds are faded as standard when the screen dims. This improves readability and protects your privacy, but also changes the appearance of the access screen. Do you find it more personal that your background can be seen in full glory? Then you can choose to switch off the access screen automatically.
Disable fading background photo
- Open Settings on your iPhone
- Navigate to ‘screen and brightness’
- Tap ‘Always on’
- Turn off the ‘Fading background photo’ option
From that moment on, the background on the access screen is no longer faded when the always-on-screen comes into effect. In addition, you can also choose to disable the display of the background and/or hide notifications.