On iOS 26, open Settings → StandBy → Display if that menu is available. Choose Never to keep the screen visible while StandBy is active. If your model lacks an Always-On display, tap the screen to wake StandBy when it goes dark.
01Start with the phone charging on its side
Section linkOpen Settings → StandBy and turn on StandBy. Connect your iPhone to power, rest it horizontally on its side so it stays still, then press the side button. If the clock never appears, check that the phone shows it is charging and that the stand holds it on its side.
02Match the timing to the setting
Section linkIn StandBy → Display, After 20 Seconds turns the display off on a timer. Automatically lets it turn off when the room is dark and the phone is idle. Try Never, if offered, and watch whether the clock stays visible past the point where it usually disappears.
03Use the wake options on other models
Section linkApple documents continuous StandBy viewing with the Always-On display on supported models. If your phone lacks that feature, you can wake StandBy by tapping the screen, gently nudging the surface the phone is on, or using Siri. Check the StandBy menu on your device for the controls it offers.
04Tell a dim red clock from a dark screen
Section linkStandBy Night Mode dims the clock and tints it red in low light. If you still see the time in red, StandBy is running. For an actual timeout, check StandBy Display. The Auto-Lock control in Display & Brightness sets when the normal iPhone screen locks.